It is traditionally known as the 'Temple of Fulfilling Vows' due to its position as the final stop.
Pilgrims often donate their 'kongozue' (walking staffs) to the temple, which are then ceremonially burned in a bonfire.
The temple was originally founded by the monk Gyoki in the 8th century, though it was later integrated into the Kobo Daishi-led pilgrimage route.
The mountain path leading to the temple is lined with stone markers indicating the distance remaining for pilgrims.
The temple precincts contain a significant collection of pilgrims' prayer slips, known as 'osamefuda', left by those who finished the route.
Okubo-ji serves as the 88th and final temple of the historic Shikoku Pilgrimage, marking the completion of the 1,200-kilometer circuit. Located in the mountains of Sanuki, Kagawa, it is the terminal point for pilgrims who follow the tradition of 'ketsugan,' or the fulfilling of the vow. The temple grounds house a main hall, a daishi-do hall, and a treasure house containing historical artifacts related to the pilgrimage. Visitors often leave their walking staffs here as a symbolic gesture of completed travel. The site is surrounded by a dense forest of ancient cedar trees that provide a natural canopy. It is situated on the slopes of Mt. Yokoyama, accessible via a steep approach that characterizes the final stage of the journey.
The main temple gate framed by the vibrant autumn leaves, or the stone staircase leading up to the main hall.
Bring a bell or a small souvenir to attach to the designated wooden posts if you are completing the full pilgrimage.
Wear sturdy hiking footwear as the temple grounds feature uneven stone stairs and steep gravel paths.
Carry a light jacket even in summer, as the mountain elevation results in temperatures significantly cooler than the coast.
Do not attempt to drive up the narrow mountain roads during peak autumn foliage weekends, as parking fills instantly and traffic stalls.
Maintain silence near the prayer halls, remove hats before entering buildings, and do not photograph the interior of the shrines.
