Jūraku-ji and Kumadani-ji
Jūraku-ji is the seventh temple in the 88 temple circuit located in Awa. It was originally located in Dogahara, Jurakuji Valley, about three kilometers north of the present site. During the Daido era (806-810), when Kobo Daishi went on pilgrimage and preached to people in this area, he saw Amida Nyorai (Buddha of Limitless Light and Life). Kobo Daishi then carved a statue of Amida Nyorai and enshrined it as the principal image of the temple.
He named the temple Komyōzan Jūrakuji (Temple of Ten Joys) in the hope that ten bright lights and shining joys would shine upon people despite the inevitable hardships of life: aging, illness, and death. For a while after its foundation, there was a vast temple complex, the largest in the northern part of Awa, but in 1528 all the buildings were destroyed by fire during the invasion of Tokushima by Chosokabe Motochika, Lord of Tosa (present-day Kochi Prefecture). In 1635 the temple was rebuilt at its current location.
Kumadani-ji is the eighth temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage in Japan. It’s a significant site known for its beautiful architecture, including the largest Niomon gate among the 88 temples. The Niomon gate is a standout feature, particularly impressive during cherry blossom season in spring. The Daishido hall, with a steep staircase leading up to it, offers a great view of the Yoshinogawa Plain.
Founded by Kūkai (Kōbō Daishi) in 815, the temple has faced fires and rebuilding throughout its history, including the loss of its main hall and principal image in 1927. The temple is a place for prayer, reflection, and experiencing the tranquility of the Shikoku pilgrimage, according to tourism information.