Ryuko-in, Buddhist temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage in Uwajima, Japan
Ryuko-in is a Buddhist temple and pilgrimage station in Uwajima, on the island of Shikoku, Japan. It sits on wooded slopes with narrow winding paths, a stone torii gate at the entrance, and small stalls near the main hall selling local fruit and manju cakes.
Ryuko-in was founded during the Heian period and is counted as number 41 among the 88 sacred sites of the Shikoku pilgrimage, a circuit linked to the monk Kukai. It has served pilgrims continuously for many centuries without major interruption.
Pilgrims at Ryuko-in wash their hands and mouth at the stone basin before entering the main hall to chant sutras. This ritual cleansing is performed every day by visitors passing through on the Shikoku circuit, giving the site a steady rhythm of devotion.
The temple office provides daily stamps and calligraphy signatures for pilgrims on the Shikoku circuit, so it is worth stopping there before leaving the grounds. The paths are narrow and the terrain uneven in places, so solid footwear is a good idea.
An old red structure has been preserved inside a newer building on the grounds, a layering of construction periods rarely seen in this type of setting. From its raised position, it offers a direct view over the valley below.
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