Yashima Temple: A Journey Through History and Spirituality
Discover ancient history and panoramic views at Yashima Temple, a sacred site on the scenic Yashima plateau in Takamatsu, Japan.
Yashima Temple, temple number 84 on the Shikoku pilgrimage, sits atop the Yashima plateau, offering stunning views of Takamatsu and the Seto Inland Sea. Founded in 754 by the Chinese monk Ganjin, it was later converted to Shingon Buddhism by Kobo Daishi in 815, who moved the temple to its current location. The temple grounds feature a mix of buildings from different eras, including the Main Hall, dating back to the Kamakura period and designated as an Important Cultural Property. The Treasure House displays relics from the Battle of Yashima, a key event in the Genpei War. Don't miss the stone images of Minoyama Daimyojin, the rascally tanuki (raccoon dog) deity, said to bring good fortune. Legend says that one of these tanuki, disguised as an old man, guided Kobo Daishi through the mists of Yashima. The temple bell, also from the Kamakura period, is another Important Cultural Property. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views, purchase clay discs to throw for luck, and explore the nearby Yashima Mountaintop Facility, offering exhibits and interactive spaces.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the temple grounds and exploring the Yashima plateau.
- Check the Yashima Sanjo Shuttle bus schedule for convenient access to the summit from JR or Kotoden Yashima Stations.
- Visit the Treasure House to see historical artifacts from the Battle of Yashima and other temple treasures.
- Don't miss the chance to throw a clay disc off the mountain for good luck, a tradition symbolizing the Minamoto warriors.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Shikoku Mura, an open-air architectural park showcasing traditional buildings from Shikoku.
A brief summary to Yashima Temple
- 1808 Yashima Higashimachi, Takamatsu, Yashima Higashimachi, Kagawa, 761-0111, JP
- +8187-841-9418
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-5 pm
- Thursday 7 am-5 pm
- Friday 7 am-5 pm
- Saturday 7 am-5 pm
- Sunday 7 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Takamatsu-Chikko Station, take the Kotoden Shido Line to Kotoden Yashima Station (approx. 15 minutes, 240 yen). From there, the Yashima Sanjo Shuttle bus runs to the summit (approx. 10 minutes, 200 yen). Alternatively, from JR Takamatsu Station, take the JR Kotoku Line to JR Yashima Station (approx. 15 minutes, 280 yen). Then, take the same Yashima Sanjo Shuttle bus to the summit (200 yen). The bus departs approximately once per hour.
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Taxi
From JR Takamatsu Station, a taxi to Yashima Temple takes approximately 30 minutes. The estimated fare is between 3,000 and 4,000 yen. Note that taxi availability at the summit for the return trip may be limited.
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Driving
Take Route 11 to Yashima. A former toll road, the Yashima Skyway, leads to the top of Yashima. It is now free to use and is open from 6:30 to 22:00. Parking at the summit costs 300 yen. Limited parking is available.
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Walking
For a scenic and spiritual experience, consider walking the Shikoku Pilgrimage route to Yashima Temple. The trail starts near Kotoden Yashima Station and leads to the temple. The climb is moderately steep, with stone pavements and stairs. Allow approximately one hour for the ascent.
