Located about 1.3 km to the east of Ryozenji (temple #1), this is the second of the 88 temple Ohenro pilgrimage. Founded by Gyoki Bosatsu, the main deity that is worshiped here is Amida Nyorai, the deity of light. The main hall features a statue carved by Kobo Daishi. Legend has it that the light from this statue was so strong that it reached the nearby ocean and blinded the local fisherman. As a result it prevented the catching of fish. After much public outcry the temple had to build a small hill in front of the image. On the grounds there is a large cedar tree that is said to give longer life and people also come here to pray for an easy childbirth.
- 1 min read
Gokurakuji
Temple #2 of the Ohenro 88 temple pilgrimage

By C. Rio
Community writer
Join the discussion
Justin Velgus
10 years ago
The Kobo Daishi statue is something I haven't seen before. How many of these temples did you visit?
1 comment in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
Hokkaido Full Immersion Tour
Hokkaido -
2
Kamenoi Hotel Atami
Shizuoka - Sponsored -
3
Ushikoi: Lean Meat Yakiniku Specialist
Tokyo -
4
Tokyo Ranks 12th on Vegan-friendly Cities List
Food -
5
Pokémon Center Fukuoka Reopens This June
Fukuoka -
6
Kyushu Craftsmanship and Traditions Heritage Tour
Article -
7
Sakai’s Hidden Gem: Konpeito Kingdom and the Art of Candy Making
Osaka -
8
Sado Island Kodo Earth Celebration 2025: Music, Traditions, Taste Tour
Niigata -
9
70 Nations, One Amazing Meal
Osaka - Sponsored -
10
I’m Donut?: Japan’s Viral Donut Sensation
Culture
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
3
Sanja Matsuri
Tokyo -
4
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
5
May Grand Sumo Tournament (Tokyo)
Tokyo -
6
Iwatayama Monkey Park
Kyoto -
7
Daikoku Car Meet
Kanagawa -
8
Japanese Urban Legends
Culture -
9
Kanda Matsuri
Tokyo -
10
Guide to PASMO Cards
Guide