The temple is traditionally associated with the legend of a monk who offered his own flesh to a tiger to save others, a story depicted in early Japanese literature.
Masaoka Shiki, the famous haiku poet, spent time here, and his poetry is memorialized on stone monuments on the temple grounds.
The name 'Jyoruri' refers to the pure land of the Medicine Buddha.
The temple grounds contain a 'Fudo-myoo' statue carved from a single piece of wood.
It is historically linked to the Iyo province pilgrimage route, marking a significant transition point in the journey through Ehime Prefecture.
Jyoruri-ji, Temple 46 of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, is distinguished by its association with the poet Masaoka Shiki and the folk story of the Buddha's footprint. The temple grounds feature a prominent Buddha's footprint stone, the 'Butsu-soku-seki,' which is a central point of veneration. It was founded in the early 8th century by the priest Gyoki. The current main hall houses an image of Yakushi Nyorai, the Medicine Buddha. The temple is surrounded by a peaceful forest setting that has inspired numerous literary works throughout history. Visitors often find stone statues and small sub-shrines scattered along the approach. The temple serves as a vital stop for 'henro' pilgrims traveling through Matsuyama. It is located in the southern outskirts of the city, providing a quieter experience than urban shrines.
The path leading up to the main hall, framed by the surrounding trees and stone lanterns.
Visit the Buddha's footprint stone near the main hall for a traditional meditative practice.
Take time to read the haiku stones inscribed on the temple grounds if you can read Japanese or have a guide.
Respect the pilgrims performing their circumambulations as they are often on a long-distance spiritual journey.
Do not take photos of pilgrims without their explicit permission, as they are often in prayer or deep reflection.
Maintain a quiet tone throughout the grounds; remove footwear if entering the interior of temple buildings; do not photograph the interior altars.
