Guida
Located in Tokushima City, Tokushima Prefecture, Jorakuji is a temple of the Koyasan Shingon sect and serves as the 14th sacred site of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. The temple holds deep historical ties to Kobo Daishi (founder of Shingon Buddhism), and its main deity is Maitreya, the Future Buddha. Visitors can experience profound tranquility through the 'Ryusui-iwa Garden,' which showcases the beauty of natural rock formations, and the presence of ancient, powerful trees that lend a sense of vitality to the sacred grounds.
The temple's origins date back to 815 (the Konyin era). Legend says that while Kobo Daishi was practicing secret Shingon rituals in this area, Maitreya descended to the land alongside many other Bodhisattvas. It is said that the Great Master carved a statue from a nearby sacred tree to serve as the central deity. Over the centuries, the temple was expanded into a grand complex with lecture halls, a three-story pagoda, and the Nio Gate, thanks to the efforts of figures like the monk Shinzen and the priest Kiyomitsu, who were instrumental in the revival of Koyasan. Although the temple once served as a place of prayer for the Awa lords during the Muromachi period, it was destroyed by fire during the Tensho era. The current grounds reflect a reconstruction from the early Edo period, and the temple was moved to its present location in 1818.
The most significant feature of Jorakuji is the devotion to Maitreya Bodhisattva. Maitreya is the Buddha of salvation who is prophesied to appear 5.67 billion years in the future, and his presence brings a sense of hope and peace to many. Another striking sight is the 'Araragi Daishi,' a massive tree standing 10 meters tall with a circumference of 8 meters. This ancient tree is a site for prayers regarding health and recovery. Additionally, near the main hall, there are statues of Jizo Bodhisattva, where locals pray for the health of children and relief from ailments, reflecting the deep-rooted spiritual traditions of the community.
Jorakuji offers beautiful seasonal changes. From spring to autumn, the lush greenery and natural landscapes are particularly beautiful and ideal for visiting. We recommend visiting in the early morning when the air is crisp and the atmosphere is exceptionally quiet, allowing for deep meditation. The 'Ryusui-iwa Garden' near the stone steps also offers a different aesthetic depending on the angle of the sunlight throughout the day.
Here, you can truly feel the culture of 'Ohenro' (the Shikoku pilgrimage). As the 14th temple on the route, you will often see pilgrims walking their sacred journey. Taking a moment to reflect in silence while gazing at the integration of nature and architecture is a precious way to disconnect from daily life. Through prayers at the giant tree or the Jizo statues, you can touch the essence of traditional Japanese faith.
The temple is easily accessible within the Tokushima area. A common route involves taking the Aizumi Interchange and following Prefectural Road 1 toward Tokushima City, eventually merging with Route 192. It is a convenient stop for those exploring the city or moving between other pilgrimage sites on the Shikoku route.
Comfortable walking shoes and clothing are highly recommended, as there are approximately 50 stone steps to climb. Please prepare Japanese Yen for offerings (Saisen). As a rule of etiquette, photography of the interior of the main hall and the sacred Buddhist statues is strictly prohibited. Please maintain a quiet demeanor to respect the practitioners and the sacred atmosphere of the temple.