Taiyūji Temple

Overview

Taiyūji Temple is the 21st temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, a mountain temple located near the summit of Mount Taiyūji in Anan City, Tokushima Prefecture. Situated at an altitude exceeding 600 meters, it was once known for its challenging mountain path. However, the opening of the Taiyūji Ropeway in 1992 made it easily accessible to everyone. Legend says that at the age of 24, Kūkai (Kōbō Daishi) performed the Kokūzō Guhō-ji practice for 100 days at "Shajinyama," a rock formation about 600 meters west of the current temple grounds. This practice significantly influenced the formation of Kūkai's early thoughts, and because of this achievement, Taiyūji is also known as the "Koyasan of the West." Mount Taiyūji has long been a site of faith, with many legends associated with its summit. These include tales of Kūkai receiving help from a dragon god during his ascetic practices and the legend of his Kokūzō Guhō-ji practice at Shajinyama. Taiyūji offers a place to find peace and quiet, reflect on yourself, while being surrounded by the history and legends of this sacred mountain. The temple grounds are home to numerous historical buildings, including a Niomon gate from the Kamakura period and a main hall rebuilt since the Edo period. Access to Taiyūji is approximately 15 minutes by bus or taxi from JR Kuno Station, or a 5-minute walk from the Taiyūji Ropeway summit station. The ropeway offers stunning views of Mount Taiyūji and the surrounding natural beauty. Taiyūji Temple boasts a particularly rich history and legends among the temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. It's a place where you can find tranquility and connect with yourself. We highly recommend a visit.