Jan 10, 2014 - 1 min read

Gokurakuji

Temple #2 of the Ohenro 88 temple pilgrimage

By C. Rio

Community writer

1 of 7

Main Gate

Detail of stone carving

Statues to pray to for an easy childbirth

Stairs to the main hall

Tribute

Kobo Daishi statue

Getting my second stamp in my Nokyocho (stamp book)

Located about 1.3 km to the east of Ryozenji (temple #1), this is the second of the 88 temple Ohenro pilgrimage. Founded by Gyoki Bosatsu, the main deity that is worshiped here is Amida Nyorai, the deity of light. The main hall features a statue carved by Kobo Daishi. Legend has it that the light from this statue was so strong that it reached the nearby ocean and blinded the local fisherman. As a result it prevented the catching of fish. After much public outcry the temple had to build a small hill in front of the image. On the grounds there is a large cedar tree that is said to give longer life and people also come here to pray for an easy childbirth.