The final stop of the Shikoku Pilgrimage: Okuboji Temple, the 88th sacred site dedicated to the Medicine Buddha

#JanuaryGoodPlaces2025 The last stop of Shikoku Pilgrimage, the 88th sacred site: Iouzan-Henjokoin-Okubo-ji. Located deep in the mountains at the junction of Tokushima and Koyama in Shikoku, this temple is dedicated to Yakushi Nyorai. Due to its high terrain, the red leaves and ginkgo trees in the temple change color every November, making it a popular spot for Shikoku people to enjoy autumn leaves. Since it was early spring when I visited, I didn't have the chance to see the red leaves, but there were a few cherry blossoms in full bloom. Dawa Temple is quite solemn. In addition to the seated statue of Medicine Buddha, the main hall also houses a staff that was brought from India to Japan via the Tang Dynasty, which is quite noble and dignified. The most convenient way to get to Okuboji Temple is by car. It takes about 40 minutes from Takamatsu Expressway to Shido IC. If you take the bus, you need to first go to JR Shido Station and then transfer to the community bus. The journey takes about 1 hour. #Shikoku Travel #Shikoku Pilgrimage #Okubo Temple