Yakuri-ji, the 85th temple
Yakuri-ji (八栗寺) is a Shingon Buddhist temple in Takamatsu, Japan. It is the 85th site of the Shikoku Ohenrosan Pilgrimage.
Yakuri Temple is located halfway up Gokenzan Mountain. As we did, to reach its precincts, you can take a cable car which takes you halfway up the mountain (see photo).
The cable ride offers lovely views of the terrain. The Temple itself is yet another nice Japanese Buddhist Temple. And from the Temple, there are spectacular views of the landscape (see photo).
For the old and lazy pilgrim, the hike down the hill is great. Since my guide knows everyone on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, we were invited in for tea by a lady who lives along the trail. She offered us nice Japanese snacks and a choice of tea. She also regaled us with stories of pilgrims.
In Japanese pilgrim culture, people who live near or along the pilgrim trails become part of the pilgrimage and offer hospitality to pilgrims. We also met another local who came out for a chat (see photo)
Founded in 829 by Kukai, Yakuri Temple became the exclusive prayer site for the Takamatsu domain during the Edo period (1603 – 1868). The main hall, which houses the statue of Seikanjizai Bosatsu created by Kukai, features the Aoi crest of the Matsudaira family on its roof and curtains, and the ceiling retains paintings of dragons by Takamatsu domain artists, reflecting the deep faith of the Matsudaira lords.
One of the temple’s major features is the Seitendo Hall, which enshrines Kangiten, known as “the deity who takes joy in the happiness of others.” It is believed to bring various blessings such as business success, fulfillment of good relationships, family safety, and academic achievement. Kangiten is affectionately called “Yakuri no Oseiten-san” and attracts many worshippers from inside and outside the prefecture.