KochiTravel

38th Sacred Site with Kobo Daishi's Legacy: Leisurely Visit the Spacious Temple Grounds

About this spot

This ancient temple near Ashizurimisaki Cape is the 38th sacred site of the Shikoku Pilgrimage's 88 temples and is said to have been founded by Kobo Daishi (Kukai). Its principal image is the Three-Faced Thousand-Armed Kannon Bodhisattva. Known for the longest distance between temples among the Shikoku pilgrimage sites, it marks the final spiritual destination of the 'Ascetic Training Grounds' of the Tosa region, where many pilgrims come to pray. The vast temple grounds spanning approximately 12 hectares feature buildings arranged around a central pond, including a five-story pagoda and numerous stone Buddhist statues. There is also a beloved statue of a turtle said to grant wishes when touched. Even for tourists, the serene atmosphere naturally instills reverence in this special place.

Tips

Visitor parking lot available in front of the temple gate. The grounds are spacious with scattered points of interest, so allow plenty of time. Don't forget your stamp book if you wish to receive a temple seal. It's only a short walk from Ashizurimisaki Observatory, so you can visit both without moving your car.