What to know
Ryozenji Temple (霊山寺, Ryōzenji) marks the starting point of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, a circuit of 88 temples on Shikoku Island associated with Kobo Daishi, founder of Shingon Buddhism. The pilgrimage takes about two months on foot and circles the entire island, passing through all four prefectures.
Many pilgrims begin and end their journey outside Shikoku with a visit to Koyasan, the head temple of Shingon Buddhism and site of Kobo Daishi's "eternal meditation." Among the 88 temples, Ryozenji is the closest to Koyasan, making it the natural start and end point on Shikoku. Here, pilgrims can buy white robes, woven hats, walking sticks, and other supplies.
To reach Ryozenji, take a train from Naruto Station to Ikenotani Station, then transfer to another train to Bando Station. The one-way trip takes 30–45 minutes, costs 330 yen, and is covered by the Japan Rail Pass. Trains run about once per hour. From Bando Station, the temple is a ten-minute walk.
Buses between Naruto Station and Itano Station (Oasa Line) also stop at Ryozenji. Get off at Ryozenji-mae bus stop. The one-way trip from Naruto Station takes about 30 minutes and costs 410 yen. Buses run only once every two hours.
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- 8:00 to 17:00
- Closed
- No closing days
- Admission
- Free
- English name
- Original name
- Ryozenji Temple
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.