Yakuri Temple in Autumn

Beautiful views of the city and mountains

Anonymous Jan 07, 2014 - 1 min read

For the pilgrim, Yakuri temple is one of the final days of a long journey and the last urban temple before things start to get sparse as one heads towards Sanuki City. This temple is a great place to relax and take a break.

The nearest parking is a good thirty minutes downhill, but you don't have to walk to the peak of the mountains to reach the temple. There are ways to the summit for the explorers out there.

A view of the Yashima plateau, where the last temple (#84) is located.

On a clear day you can see all of Takamatsu from here

November is a great time to see the changing colors of the leaves

There are refreshments sold by a sweet elderly couple such as ramune, amazake, tea, Mitsuya Cider, sports drinks, and more.

A pilgrim's belongings rest near the hall

Visited, maintained, built, and worshipped over centuries, ancient temples such as Yakuri offer us glimpses through the eyes of those from past generations. Viewed from different angles throughout the seasons, true artistic beauty can be found.

If you hear the ring of the bell (kane), stop and visualize your life and think of where you are at this moment. If you want to ring it, don't forget to drop some coins into an offertory box!

Accessing this temple makes you feel many miles from the city

The walk to the temple is nearly as enjoyable as the Yakuriji itself

Yakuri Temple (Yakuriji), is the 85th temple in the famous 88 pilgrimage. It comes after Yashima Temple and before Shido Temple. The temple gets its name from the legend that Kobo Daishi planted eight chestnut trees here (ya = 8, kuri = chestnut). The oldest structure here is the wooden bell tower, which was rebuilt in 1791. The temple itself is, of course, a thousand years older. Many people park and walk to the temple, although there is a gondola that leads you to another temple atop the same mountain. Take your time and explore different paths around this mountaintop temple.

More info

Find out more about Yakuriji Temple.

Anonymous @bret.de.colebi__archived

I am a Seattle native, settled here on Shikoku these last few years. Love Japanese food, hiking, camping, swimming, and taking photos of this beautiful corner of the world!