Ryozenji Temple

Ryozenji Temple (霊山寺, Ryōzenji) marks the starting point of the renowned Shikoku Pilgrimage, a sacred journey encompassing 88 temples associated with Kobo Daishi, the revered founder of Shingon Buddhism. This pilgrimage stretches across all four prefectures of Shikoku and typically takes around two months to complete on foot, challenging participants both physically and spiritually. Ryozenji, located in Tokushima Prefecture, is traditionally recognized as Temple #1, where pilgrims, known as henro, gather to begin their journey or return to reflect and offer thanks upon completion. The tranquil temple grounds are often alive with the quiet anticipation of departing pilgrims or the sense of accomplishment of those returning after their long trek.

The temple holds particular importance due to its connection with Koyasan, the headquarters of Shingon Buddhism and the resting place of Kobo Daishi, who is believed to remain in eternal meditation. At Ryozenji, visitors can purchase traditional pilgrimage attire, such as white robes (hakui), woven sedge hats (sugegasa), and walking sticks (kongōzue), as well as prayer books and name slips. These items are not only practical but also symbolic, representing the spiritual commitment of the journey ahead. A visit to Ryozenji is both a ceremonial and emotional milestone, marking the beginning or end of a profound spiritual adventure along the historic Shikoku Pilgrimage route.