Guide
Negoro-ji is the 82nd temple of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, located in Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture. It is a Tendai sect temple situated on the slopes of Mt. Aomine, the main peak of the Shiko-dai plateau. This site is a highly prestigious sacred ground, said to have been identified by Kobo Daishi (Kukai) as an ideal location for Esoteric Buddhist training. The name 'Negoro-ji' is derived from the fragrant sacred wood that once grew here, leaving visitors with a sense of refreshing air and deep historical weight. It is a place where spiritual peace meets breathtaking natural landscapes.
The history of the temple dates back to the era of Kobo Daishi. It is said that during the Kobo era (810–824), Kukai visited this land and perceived the Five Wisdom Buddhas within the five peaks of Shiko-dai. He established 'Kazo-in' on Mt. Aomine to worship the Five Great Wisdom Kings. Later, in 832, the monk Chisho discovered a fragrant sacred tree and used it to carve a statue of Kannon, founding the 'Senju-in'. The scent from this wood is said to be the origin of the temple's name. Although the temple faced destruction during wars, it was later restored by Matsudaira Yorishige, the first lord of the Takamatsu Domain. Today, it remains a precious site of the Tendai sect.
The temple grounds feature various historical buildings and stone statues. The primary deity is Senju Kannon, and the main hall houses a secret Buddha statue that is revealed only once every 33 years. Visitors can explore the Sanmon (Nio Gate), the main hall reached via stone steps, the Daishi-do (dedicated to Kobo Daishi), and the Godai-do (dedicated to the Five Great Wisdom Kings). The site is also home to stone statues and scrolls related to the 'Ushi-oni' (Ox-Demon) legend, offering a glimpse into local folklore. Additionally, the site of the 'Hakko-keyaki' tree, once thought to be 1,600 years old, serves as a testament to the area's ancient history.
Negoro-ji reveals different faces throughout the seasons. It is particularly famous as a premier autumn foliage spot, with vibrant colors decorating the temple grounds from October to November. Because this is a peak season, crowds are expected. The temple is open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Visiting in the early morning is highly recommended to experience the most tranquil atmosphere and the crisp, fresh air. Please note that parking and surrounding roads can become congested during the autumn peak, so allow extra travel time.
Here, you can truly feel the culture of the Shikoku Henro (pilgrimage). As the 82nd station, you can experience the atmosphere of a place where pilgrims walk step by step toward enlightenment. You can also encounter Japanese folklore through the 'Ushi-oni' legend displays. The process of climbing the historical stone steps toward the main hall is a meditative experience in itself, allowing you to find inner peace in a quiet, natural environment.
Negoro-ji is located in the beautiful Shiko-dai area, which is easily accessible from Takamatsu city center. This makes it an excellent base for sightseeing. The area also features various facilities to enjoy Kagawa's famous 'Udon' noodles and local accommodations, making it easy to integrate this temple visit into a larger Shikoku pilgrimage itinerary.
