Highlights of Chikurinji Temple
Chikurin-ji Temple on Mount Gotaisan is the 31st temple on the pilgrimage route of Shikoku’s eighty-eight sacred sites. Monju Bosatsu is enshrined as the principal object of worship, and visitors can explore the main hall, which is designated an Important Cultural Property, the five-story pagoda, garden, treasure house, and other highlights.
The only main hall among Shikoku’s sacred pilgrimage sites enshrining Mañjuśrī
Image: 663highland / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.5, cropped, resized, and sharpened)Chikurin-ji is said to have been founded by Gyōki at the imperial request of Emperor Shōmu. Among the eighty-eight pilgrimage sites of Shikoku, Chikurin-ji is the only pilgrimage temple whose principal object of worship is Mañjuśrī. The present main hall dates from the Muromachi period and has been designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
The Five-Story Pagoda Amid Gotaisan’s Greenery
Image: Naokijp / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0, cropped, resized, and sharpened)The vermilion five-story pagoda stands out amid the lush greenery of the temple grounds. The current pagoda was rebuilt in 1980 and is approximately 31 m tall. As you explore the main hall and the path leading to the temple, you can enjoy the tranquil scenery characteristic of a mountain temple.
Gardens and Treasure Museum
The garden beside the study incorporates the mountainside and is designed for viewing its pond. It is nationally designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty. In the treasure hall, you can see the temple's principal image, a statue of Manjushri Bodhisattva, along with other treasures handed down at Chikurinji Temple over the generations.
Chikurin-ji Temple: Essential Information
The information below was checked against official sources on September 24, 2026. Please also check the latest information on the official website when planning your trip.
- 🔗 Official website
- Check visiting hours, admission fees, access information, and an overview of the temple.
竹林寺 第31番札所 - 観光情報サイト - 高知市ホームページ（観光魅力創造課）www.city.kochi.kochi.jp
- 📍 Address
- 3577 Godaisan, Kochi, Kochi Prefecture
- 🕒 Visiting hours
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- Temple grounds 8:00–17:00
- Garden and treasure museum 8:30–17:00 (last admission at 16:30)
- 🚫 Closed days
- Generally open every day. ⚠️ Visits may not be possible during ceremonies and other events.
- 💶 Admission
-
- Combined garden and treasure museum admission Adults: 800 yen
- Garden Adults: 500 yen
- Treasure museum Adults: 400 yen
- Children Half the adult price; preschool children free
- ⏱️ Visit duration
- Allow about 45–60 minutes to focus on the main hall and five-story pagoda, or about 60–90 minutes if also visiting the garden and treasure museum. ⚠️ Allow extra time if you plan to receive a temple stamp or attend a ceremony.
Access to Chikurin-ji Temple
MY Yu Bus
From JR Kōchi Station, take the MY Yū Bus and get off at “Chikurinji-mae.” Operating days and times vary by season, so check the latest timetable before traveling.
By car
From central Kochi, head toward Mount Godai. Free parking is available, but it may be crowded during religious events and the tourist season.
The related guide “【高知】観光スポット・グルメ・交通・モデルコースを解説” is currently available only in Japanese.
