極楽寺

Gokuraku-ji is a Buddhist temple in Sanuki with multiple halls arranged across spacious grounds and surrounded by cherry and maple trees. Stone paths wind through the property, guiding visitors past the various structures and natural vegetation.

The temple became a station on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage route, drawing spiritual seekers to walk the ancient paths across the region. Its place in this important route shaped its role as a significant stop for pilgrims across centuries.

Visitors collect temple stamps in their pilgrimage books and place gold leaf on the statue of Kōbō-Daishi as an offering. These acts show how pilgrims express their personal devotion at this sacred site.

The temple provides meditation areas and serves traditional vegetarian Buddhist meals to visitors. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since the grounds are extensive and require some navigation between different halls.

The temple grounds hold thousands of small statues donated by supporters over centuries, each representing a personal connection to the sacred site. Walking among these figures offers a sense of how many generations have visited and left their mark here.