Jan 21, 2014 - 1 min read

Shoryuji

Temple #36 of the Ohenro 88 temple pilgrimage

By C. Rio

Community writer

1 of 7

Autumn colors

Purification fountain

Main Gate

Three story pagoda

Stairs to Main Hall

Carving detail

Pilgrim worshiping at the Main Hall

Temple thirty six in the Shikoku Ohenro pilgrimage is also known as the Green Dragon Temple. Kobo Daishi built this temple in memory of his Chinese master Keika, giving it the same name as the one in China where he studied. Upon leaving China to return home, Kobo Daishi threw a pointed Vajra (five pronged spear) in the direction of Japan. Temple legends says that it landed in the branches of a pine tree in the rear of the present temple. The main deity, which was carved by Kobo Daishi, is known as the guardian of fishermen and is commonly called the Dragon Fudo. To get there, catch a Usa bound bus from Kochi station and get off at the skyline-iriguchi bus stop. From there it’s about a 40 minute walk.