Shōryūji Temple: A Sacred Site on the Shikoku Pilgrimage

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Discover Shōryūji Temple, the 36th temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, a serene and historically rich Buddhist site in Tosa, Kochi, Japan.

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Shōryūji Temple

Shōryūji Temple, also known as the Temple of the Green Dragon, is the 36th temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage in Tosa, Kochi, Japan. Founded by Kōbō Daishi (Kūkai) in the Kōnin era (810-824), it commemorates his master Keika (Ch. Hui-kuo) and features the Honzon Acala, carved by Kōbō Daishi himself.

A brief summary to Shōryūji Temple

163 Usachoryu, Tosa, Usachoryu, Kochi, 781-1165, JP
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Monday 8 am-5 pm
Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
Thursday 8 am-5 pm
Friday 8 am-5 pm
Saturday 8 am-5 pm
Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the long stairway to the main hall and Daishido.
Visit during autumn for stunning views of the colorful foliage.
Take time to explore the Okunoin, located 600 meters through the woods from the main temple.

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Getting There

Bus

From Kochi Station, take a Usa-bound bus and get off at the Skyline Iriguchi bus stop. From there, it is approximately a 40-minute walk to Shōryūji Temple. Bus fare is around ¥700-¥1000. A one-day ticket for the streetcar within the flat-rate zone is ¥500 for adults.
Train

From Kochi (State), you can take a train from Gomen to Tosa-Kure Station. The train ride takes approximately 1 hour and 1 minute and costs between ¥2,300 and ¥3,400. From Tosa-Kure Station, take a taxi to Shōryūji Temple. The taxi fare will be approximately ¥4,000-¥6,000.

Discover more about Shōryūji Temple

Shōryūji Temple, nestled in Tosa, Kochi Prefecture, is a significant stop on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, known as the 36th temple on the route. This serene temple, also called the Temple of the Green Dragon, holds a rich history and spiritual importance. Founded by the revered Kōbō Daishi (Kūkai) during the Kōnin era (810-824), Shōryūji Temple was built to honor his Chinese master, Keika (Ch. Hui-kuo). Legend says that Kōbō Daishi threw a Vajra towards Japan, which landed in a pine tree near the temple's current location. The temple's Honzon, Acala (Namikiri Fudo Myoo), is said to have been carved by Kōbō Daishi after Acala saved him from a storm at sea. Throughout history, Shōryūji has faced periods of decline and restoration. It fell into disrepair by the Edo period but was rebuilt in the mid-17th century by Yamauchi Tadayoshi. An earthquake and tsunami in 1707 led to another rebuilding near the end of the Edo period. Today, the temple welcomes pilgrims and visitors with its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful grounds, featuring two pagodas, a waterfall used for training, and groves of bamboo.