Minami・Mugi・Shishikui

Yakuoji Temple

This is the last temple in Tokushima Prefecture that is a part of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage route, and it is famous as a temple to ward off bad luck or misfortune. There are three sets of stairs - one with 33 stairs, one with 42 stairs, and one with 61 stairs. These are the years of misfortune for women, men, and those who turn 60 (61 in the old calendar) respectively . By climbing and leaving a coin on each step, it's said that one can prevent misfortune from occurring during that year.

Highlights

1

Built by Gyoki Bosatsu

Yakuoji Temple was built by the Buddhist priest Gyoki Bosatsu at the request of Emperor Shomu during the 8th century. In 815, when Kukai/Kobo Daishi visited here at the age of 42, he prayed for protection from misfortune for himself and all living things. He then built a statue of Yakushi Nyorai (the medicine Buddha) and enshrined it as the principal image.
2

Yugi Pagoda

This 29-meter-high pagoda was erected in 1963. It is a representation of the Yugi Sutra, a sutra belonging to the Shingon sect of Buddhism, and is a beloved symbol of Yakuoji Temple.
3

Spring Water

Water containing radium said to be effective against lung diseases and other ailments gushes out from a spot behind the main hall. A stone statue of Kukai/Kobo Daishi is enshrined inside, and the water that gushes out from the statue's feet never dries up.

Details

Activities

Various activities are available, including an Ajikan meditation experience, sutra copying, Buddhist cuisine, and a special internal visit to the main temple.

A Walk in the Dark

Descending the stairs from the entrance of the Yugi Pagoda, go to the left and you will find a pitch-dark passageway. As you walk down the passageway, you will find a faint light. This is a place where you can connect with the deity of Yakushi Nyorai, who extends his hand and saves you in the midst of suffering.

Hot Spring (Onsen)

There is an onsen (hot spring) near Yakuoji Temple that is believed to have founded by Kukai/Kobo Daishi. The water is said to help people suffering from various illnesses. The cafeteria even offers a menu called "Yakuyoke Teishoku" (a set meal to ward off misfortune).