Sekkeiji Temple Information
Goshuin
- Omie
- 1,200th Anniversary Edition
Basic Information
| Principal Deity | Yakushi Nyorai |
| Elevation | 5 m |
| Google Maps | MAP |
Accommodation
| Shukubo (Temple Lodging) | Available |
| Tsuyado (Free Pilgrim Shelter) | Available |
History & Highlights
Sekkeiji is a temple said to have been founded by Kōbō Daishi. During the Sengoku period, it was restored by Chōsokabe Motochika, and today it is one of only two temples among the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage belonging to the Rinzai school of Zen Buddhism. The temple preserves many cultural treasures, including Buddhist statues attributed to Unkei, a renowned sculptor of the Kamakura period, carrying on the history and culture of Tosa to the present day.
Route Map, Distance & Travel Time
You can switch between the tabs to view the routes to the previous and next temples.
Select “Driving Route” from the map’s upper-left menu to display the driving route.
Click the Full Screen icon in the upper-right corner of the map to open it in Google Maps for a larger, easier-to-view map.
- From Previous Temple
- To Next Temple
Previous Temple: Zenjibuji
| Distance | 7.5 km |
| Walking | 2 hr 20 min |
| Driving | 30 min |
Next Temple: Tanemaji
| Distance | 6.3 km |
| Walking | 1 hr 40 min |
| Driving | 20 min |
My Walking Experience
Two Routes from Zenjibuji to Sekkeiji
There are two possible routes from Zenjibuji to Sekkeiji:
- The route using the Tanezaki ferry
- The route crossing Urado Bridge on foot
I have completed the Shikoku Pilgrimage twice as a walking pilgrim, and I have experienced both routes. Each route has its own advantages, so the best choice depends on your walking style and what you hope to experience along the way.
| Comparison | Tanezaki Ferry | Urado Bridge Route |
|---|---|---|
| Safety | Excellent | Requires caution |
| Ease of navigation | Very easy | Generally easy |
| Sightseeing | Good | Excellent (Katsurahama Beach & Sakamoto Ryōma Statue) |
| Time required | Approx. 10-minute ferry ride + waiting time | Approx. 2 km walk across the bridge |
| Recommended for | Those prioritizing an easier walk | Those who want to walk the entire route and enjoy sightseeing |
Recommended: The Tanezaki Ferry Route
I recommend the route using the Tanezaki Ferry.
The ferry usually operates about once an hour, and the waiting time provides a good opportunity to rest. The crossing takes only about 10 minutes, and after arriving on the opposite shore, the route continues west, making it very unlikely that you will lose your way.
While waiting in the ferry terminal, I received a juice and rice crackers as an osettai (pilgrim hospitality) from a local resident. These unexpected encounters with people along the way are one of the special joys of the walking pilgrimage.
Feeling the sea breeze as the ferry crossed Urado Bay and seeing Urado Bridge from the water offered a memorable experience that was completely different from walking on land.
Urado Bridge Route
The Urado Bridge route was the path I chose on my first pilgrimage. At the time, I wanted to complete the entire journey using only my own feet, so I decided to cross the bridge.
However, Urado Bridge has a narrow sidewalk and heavy vehicle traffic, so caution is necessary when walking across it. I carried my pilgrim staff (kongōzue) directly in front of my body to prevent it from extending into the roadway.
After crossing the bridge, the Urado area has some narrow and winding streets, and I found it slightly easier to lose my way there.
On the other hand, the greatest attraction of this route is the easy access to Katsurahama Beach. This famous scenic location in Kōchi offers beautiful coastal views and the iconic Sakamoto Ryōma Statue, making it an excellent choice for pilgrims who also want to enjoy sightseeing.
Which Route Should You Choose?
If you prioritize an easier and safer walk → Tanezaki Ferry Route
If you want to visit Katsurahama Beach and enjoy sightseeing → Urado Bridge Route
Both routes offer unique experiences, but for first-time walking pilgrims, I recommend the Tanezaki Ferry Route. Its clear route, lower risk from traffic, and relaxed ferry crossing make it the more comfortable choice for enjoying the pilgrimage.
Nearby Accommodation
If you plan to stay near Sekkeiji or between the surrounding pilgrimage temples, see the article below.
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Temple List and Full Route
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