Dainichi-ji ist Tempel Nr. 13 auf der 88-Tempel-Pilgerroute durch Shikoku in Tokushima.

Until 1868, pilgrims actually visited Ichinomiya Shrine across the road to collect their temple stamps, not Dainichi-ji itself. The shrine was considered part of the pilgrimage route during the Edo period.

The temple houses a 'Shiawase Kannon' (Happiness Kannon) monument shaped like praying hands with the deity inside the palms, a pun on the Japanese words for palm lines (shiwa) and happiness (shiawase).

Kobo Daishi founded the temple after Dainichi Nyorai appeared in a purple cloud during his training, declaring 'This land is a sacred place.' He carved the deity's statue on the spot and built the temple immediately.