Mount Godaisan

Godaisan (五台山), a peaceful mountain located just east of central Kochi, takes its name from Wutai Shan in China—a sacred site in Chinese Buddhism. The name was bestowed by Buddhist priests who traveled from China and later established Chikurinji Temple on its slopes. Designated as Temple 31 on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, Chikurinji has long served both as a place of worship and a respected center for Buddhist study. Pilgrims and visitors alike are drawn to its tranquil, forested setting, graceful architecture, and spiritual ambiance. A highlight is the striking five-story pagoda, which rises elegantly above the trees. The temple’s treasure hall (Homotsuden) houses a rich collection of Buddhist statues, scriptures, and ritual artifacts, offering a window into centuries of devotion and artistic mastery.

Just steps away from the temple lies the Makino Botanical Garden—a vibrant tribute to Dr. Makino Tomitaro, one of Japan’s most influential botanists and a proud native of Kochi. Spanning a scenic hillside, the garden features peaceful walking paths, seasonal plant displays, and a greenhouse filled with species from across Japan and around the world. Several exhibition halls highlight Dr. Makino’s life, research, and detailed botanical illustrations, blending science with cultural heritage. Together, Chikurinji Temple and the Makino Botanical Garden make Godaisan a uniquely enriching destination—where spiritual tradition, scholarly legacy, and natural beauty come together in perfect harmony.