Ryozenji Temple 霊山寺

Ryozenji Temple, located in the town of Naruto near Tokushima City , is the starting point of the Shikoku Pilgrimage . This epic 1,400-kilometer journey takes pilgrims to 88 temples scattered across Shikoku . Join the pilgrims for a portion of the route, or set out on the trek of a lifetime.

The temple is about a 10-minute walk from Bando Station.

From Tokushima Station, take the JR Kotoku Line toward Takamatsu . Bando Station is about 20 minutes away on the train.

All 88 temples on the Shikoku Pilgrimage are associated with the monk Kukai, the founder of esoteric Shingon Buddhism. Of these, Ryozenji Temple has a deep connection to Koyasan in Wakayama Prefecture . Koyasan is Shingon Buddhism's holiest site and home of Kukai's mausoleum, where he is considered to rest in eternal meditation. This makes Ryozenji and its relative proximity an auspicious place for starting the pilgrimage.

The traditional route, which circumnavigates Shikoku , generally takes about two months to complete by foot.

Because many pilgrims complete their journey at Koyasan , Ryozenji Temple serves as both the start and end of the Shikoku leg of the pilgrimage. The busy temple shop sells the white robes, woven hats, walking sticks, and other supplies pilgrims traditionally use. Even if you are not completing the whole two-month trek, picking up some of the gear will help you get in the spirit.

Ryozenji's grounds feature a fine wooden gate at the entrance, attractive gardens with a small waterfall, a large carp pond, and a two-story pagoda. All this plus the white-clad pilgrims makes for a perfect picture opportunity.