Pilgrimage Route Through the Mountainous Areas
Pilgrimage Route Through the Mountainous Areas
Start from the point of intersection of National Highway No. 318 and Prefectural Road No. 235. Join the pilgrimage route through a land lined with grape vines and various farms. As you follow a path lined with houses, the Nio temple gate of Kumatani Temple, the 8th temple, comes into view. This site is designated as one of the prefecture's Important Cultural Properties. The two-storied pagoda and main temple gate are said to have been built during the Edo period. The main hall stands just beyond. Continuing along the pilgrimage route, you'll enter a broad expanse of countryside. Follow the farm road marked by milestones to reach Hourin Temple, the 9th temple, nestled among trees. Continue further along the pilgrimage route to arrive at Kirihata Temple, the 10th temple. Pass through the temple gate and climb the long stone stairway to reach the main hall.
Pilgrimage Route Through the Mountainous Areas（10.5km）
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Spots to photograph
If you wish to receive a certificate, please take a photo that includes yourself at the designated photo point for each course.
Nearby sightseeing spots
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1
Hospitality ParkThis park was created on the former site of the family home of Takeo Miki, the 66th Prime Minister of Japan. In one corner stands a stone monument engraved with his favorite saying: "Without faith, we cannot stand." Further down the road, you'll find a hut built especially for pilgrims.
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2
Kumatani TempleThe eighth Temple of the 88 Sacred Temples of Shikoku. This temple boasts one of the largest Nio gates among all Shikoku temples, and within its grounds stands the region's largest and oldest two-storied pagoda. Along a pathway lined with cherry blossom trees stands a two-story temple gate, said to have been built during the Genroku era. Admire the Hachisuka cherry blossoms in spring and bigleaf hydrangeas in early summer.
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3
Hourin TempleThe Ninth Temple of the 88 Sacred Temples of Shikoku This temple stands alone, enclosed by white walls in a vast rural landscape overlooking the Yoshino River. Kobo Daishi carved a statue of a Reclining Buddha, which serves as the temple's principal object of worship. The statue is displayed publicly once every five years. Visitors come here to pray for strong legs, which is why many straw sandals are dedicated in the main hall.
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4
Kirihata TempleTenth Temple of the 88 Sacred Temples of Shikoku This temple is built partway up Mt. Kirihata, at an elevation of 155 meters. After climbing 333 stone steps from the Nio temple gate, you'll find the main temple, the Kobo Daishi Hall, and a large pagoda. The view from the large pagoda of Kirihata Temple, a National Important Cultural Property, is truly magnificent.
