07 18 2020
Temple no. 83 – Ichinomiya temple and no. 84 – Yashima temple
In Shikoku there is a famous pilgrimage called the 88 Shrine Temple Pilgramage.
In Takamatsu you can find no. 83 temple on the walk. This temple is called Ichinomiya temple, and is a small charming temple.
There is not that many people that visit this shrine and you should not except to see many pilgrims here. Nonetheless the atmosphere at this temple is very nice and relaxing.
Both the exterior and interior is not super glamours like in most temples, but walking around around this is a quite nice experience. It gives a good glimpse of Japanese culture, and seeing the pilgrims, is very inspirational, and if you want you can even walk the 15km to the next temple on top of Mt. Yashima.
The road up to the Yashima temple runs along road the whole way, so if you are not feeling like climbing a mountain, it is possible to also drive up there. If you, however, decide to start the climb, I can recommend bringing at least 2L of water. Especially if you are here in the summer.
The temple is so worth it climbing the mountain! It is a quite big temple, with many intriguing features.
This temple was built by a Chinese Priest named Ganjin in the year 754. He had come to Japan, as a kind of missionary to spread the news of Buddhism.
You can also wander around temple, where you’ll find a nice view of the Takamatsu Bay. I can definitely recommend going on a clear day. That way you’ll be able to see so far.
Doing the sakura season this place is so beautiful to visit. The combination of the temple, view and the Sakura is such an amazing experience, I have heard. Sadly I was here doing the rainy season in July, but even then it was really beautiful and aesthetic.
At the top of the mountain there is also an Aquarium, called New Yashima Aquarium. There is around 130 different species including, penguins, dolphins, seals, etc.
They have many different advents, so checking their website before going is recommend.
Useful information(Aquarium):
Address:〒7610111
1785-1 Yashimahigashimachi, Takamatsu City, Kagawa
Price: JPY1200 / Adult.
Age 6-15: JPY 700
3 yrs~preschool children: JPY 500
2 years old and under: Free (Please inform staff when purchasing a ticket. You’ll receive a free ticket).
Hours: 09:00~17:00. Final admission 30 minutes before closing.
Website: http://www.new-yashima-aq.com/newYAQ/home/home.html