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Temple 10: Kirihataji

Temple Guide

Kirihataji Temple Information

Temple 10: Kirihataji

Goshuin

Kirihataji Temple Goshuin (1,200th Anniversary Commemorative Stamp)
  • Omie
  • 1,200th Anniversary Edition
Kirihataji Temple Omie
Kirihataji Temple Omie (1,200th Anniversary Edition)

Basic Information

Principal DeityThousand-Armed Kannon
Elevation150 m
Google MapsMAP

Accommodation

Shukubo
(Temple Lodging)
Not Available
Tsuyado
(Free Pilgrim Shelter)
Not Available

History & Highlights

Kirihataji is a temple associated with the legend of a young woman who offered cloth to Kōbō Daishi and, through his blessing, attained enlightenment in her present body as Senju Kannon (Thousand-Armed Avalokiteshvara). Because of this tradition, the temple is widely known as the “Temple of Sokushin Jōbutsu for Women” (attaining Buddhahood in one’s present body). From the Great Pagoda, a designated Important Cultural Property of Japan, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Yoshino River and the Shikoku Mountains.

Notes

There are 333 stone steps from the parking lot to the temple grounds.

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: Horinji

Temple 9: Horinji
Distance3.8 km
Walking1 hr 10 min
Driving15 min

Next Temple: Fujiidera

Temple 11: Fujiidera
Distance9.3 km
Walking2 hr 40 min
Driving35 min

My Walking Experience

The route heads west from Horinji and is easy to follow, with very few places where you are likely to lose your way. When you see the sign for Kirihata-ji, turn right.

Kirihataji is situated at an elevation of approximately 150 meters (490 ft). From the parking lot, you will need to climb 333 stone steps to reach the temple grounds. Although the walking distance for this section is just under 4 km (2.5 miles), it is advisable to allow about 1.5 hours, including the time required to climb the stone staircase.

Nearby Accommodation

If you plan to stay near Kirihataji or between the surrounding pilgrimage temples, see the article below.

Recommended Accommodation: Temples 1–11 in Tokushima
A practical guide to accommodation along the Shikoku Pilgrimage Temples 1–11 in Tokushima. Based on real walking pilgrimage experience, this article introduces recommended hotels, guesthouses, and temple lodgings near key temple areas, helping first-time pilgrims choose convenient and comfortable stays for a smooth journey start.

Related Articles

Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage Route: Full List, Distance & Walking Time Guide.
Temple List and Full Route

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