Kongofuku-ji Temple (No. 38) - Image 1
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Kongofuku-ji Temple No. 38

4.3
·921 reviews·Tosashimizu, Japan

A visually stunning temple on the Shikoku pilgrimage, renowned for its abundant Buddhist symbolism and beautiful gardens.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
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Kongofuku-ji Temple (No. 38) - Image 1

Kongofuku-ji Temple No. 38

Best Time

Mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A visually stunning temple on the Shikoku pilgrimage, renowned for its abundant Buddhist symbolism and beautiful gardens. Reddit

4.3
(921 reviews)

"My favourite temple so far on the Shikoku Henro pilgrimage. Absolutely stunning! Reddit"

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TIP

📸 Photo Opportunities Galore

This temple is a photographer's dream with its abundant symbolic items and beautiful grounds.

🚶 Nature Walk Nearby

If you have energy, explore the nature walks around the temple for a refreshing experience.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Symbolic Buddhist Treasures

Symbolic Buddhist Treasures

A stunning collection of symbolic Buddhist items, offering a visually rich experience.

Reddit
Beautifully Landscaped Grounds

Beautifully Landscaped Grounds

Enjoy the meticulously maintained gardens surrounding the temple, a highlight for many visitors.

Reddit
Well-Preserved Statues

Well-Preserved Statues

Admire the numerous well-preserved statues that contribute to the temple's historical significance.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Abundance of Symbolism

Prepare for a temple packed with Buddhist symbolism, offering ample photo opportunities. While visually rich, it may feel less serene than other pilgrimage sites. Reddit

Combine with Nature and Relaxation

Consider exploring nearby nature walks and visiting the Mana village onsen for a complete experience after your temple visit. Reddit

Best Times

When
Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Good for photography
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📸 Photo Opportunities Galore

This temple is a photographer's dream with its abundant symbolic items and beautiful grounds. Reddit

🚶 Nature Walk Nearby

If you have energy, explore the nature walks around the temple for a refreshing experience. Reddit

♨️ Onsen Relaxation

The Mana village onsen is a great spot to relax after your temple visit. Reddit

🙏 Shikoku Pilgrimage Stop

Recognized as No. 38 on the 88-temple Shikoku pilgrimage route. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Photo Opportunities Galore

This temple is a photographer's dream with its abundant symbolic items and beautiful grounds. Reddit

🚶 Nature Walk Nearby

If you have energy, explore the nature walks around the temple for a refreshing experience. Reddit

♨️ Onsen Relaxation

The Mana village onsen is a great spot to relax after your temple visit. Reddit

🙏 Shikoku Pilgrimage Stop

Recognized as No. 38 on the 88-temple Shikoku pilgrimage route. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(921 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Kongofuku-ji Temple No. 38 for its stunning beauty, abundant symbolic Buddhist items, and meticulously landscaped grounds, making it a favorite on the Shikoku pilgrimage. While some find it less serene due to its visual richness, its well-preserved statues and overall aesthetic appeal make it a highly recommended visit. Reddit

"I don't think they missed putting any type of symbolic Buddhist item in this temple. 😂 It's beautiful and you can take a ton of photos. But it lacks serenity. That said, it's definitely worth a visit."

Kracevaya

"My favourite temple so far on the Shikoku Henro pilgrimage. Absolutely stunning!"

Beatrice Thorstensen

"One of the most beautifully landscaped temples so far in our Shikoku trip. It’s No 38 on the 88-temple pilgrimage."

Cher Lee Kiat

What People Like

Stunning beauty
Abundant symbolism
Beautiful landscaping

What People Dislike

Lacks serenity

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Information on public transport or driving directions to Kongofuku-ji Temple No. 38 would typically be found on local tourism websites or pilgrimage route guides. Many pilgrims arrive on foot as it's part of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. Reddit

Parking availability can vary. It's advisable to check local temple information or pilgrimage resources for specific details on parking facilities. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Most temples on the Shikoku pilgrimage route do not require an entrance fee, though donations are often appreciated. Confirm with specific pilgrimage guides. Reddit

Temples are generally accessible during daylight hours. For specific times or any restrictions, consult official pilgrimage information. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted in the temple grounds, but it's always good practice to check for any signage indicating restricted areas, especially inside main halls. Reddit

The temple is known for its abundance of symbolic Buddhist items and beautifully landscaped grounds, making them prime photography subjects. Reddit

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

While visually stunning with many symbolic items, some visitors note it can feel less serene compared to other temples due to its richness. Reddit

It's celebrated for its exceptionally beautiful landscaping and a vast array of well-preserved Buddhist statues and symbolic items. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Pilgrims and Spiritual Seekers

For those on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, Kongofuku-ji No. 38 is a crucial waypoint. Its status as the 38th temple means it holds a specific place in the journey's progression. Visitors undertaking the pilgrimage will find the usual elements of temple visits, including prayer spaces and opportunities for reflection. The temple's rich symbolism can offer deeper spiritual insights for those seeking them. Reddit

Even if you're not a formal pilgrim, the temple's spiritual atmosphere, combined with its stunning visual elements, can be profoundly moving. Consider arriving early to experience a quieter, more contemplative environment before the day's visitors arrive. Reddit

Photographers and Art Enthusiasts

Kongofuku-ji Temple No. 38 is a photographer's paradise due to its incredible density of symbolic Buddhist items and well-maintained statues. The beautifully landscaped gardens also provide stunning backdrops. You'll find ample opportunities to capture unique shots that showcase the intricate details and artistic craftsmanship. Reddit

Be prepared to spend a good amount of time exploring and framing your shots. While the visual richness is a major draw, remember to be respectful of the sacred nature of the site. The temple's aesthetic appeal makes it a must-visit for anyone interested in religious art and architecture. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage

Kongofuku-ji Temple No. 38 is a significant stop on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, a centuries-old Buddhist journey across the island of Shikoku in Japan. Pilgrims, known as 'o-henro-san', travel on foot, visiting each of the 88 temples associated with the Buddhist monk Kūkai (Kōbō Daishi). This pilgrimage is not just a physical journey but also a spiritual one, often undertaken for prayer, reflection, or personal growth. Arriving at Temple No. 38, visitors can feel the weight of this tradition and the devotion of those who have walked the path before them. Reddit

For those not undertaking the full pilgrimage, visiting Kongofuku-ji Temple No. 38 offers a glimpse into this unique cultural and religious practice. The temple itself is designed to facilitate the spiritual journey, with its layout and offerings often reflecting the teachings of Kūkai. Understanding its place within the larger pilgrimage adds a layer of appreciation to its beauty and significance. Reddit

Art and Symbolism at Kongofuku-ji

Visitors consistently remark on the sheer abundance of symbolic Buddhist items and well-preserved statues at Kongofuku-ji Temple No. 38. This visual richness makes it a standout destination, particularly for those interested in Buddhist art and iconography. Each statue and symbol often carries deep meaning, representing deities, bodhisattvas, or aspects of Buddhist philosophy. The temple's design likely aims to immerse visitors in this symbolic world, fostering contemplation and understanding. Reddit

The beautifully landscaped grounds are another key feature, enhancing the aesthetic appeal and providing a tranquil setting for reflection, despite some noting a potential lack of deep serenity. The interplay between the architectural elements, the religious artifacts, and the natural beauty of the gardens creates a holistic experience. It's a place where art, nature, and spirituality converge, offering a memorable visual feast for all who visit. Reddit

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