Kongocho-ji (Temple 26)
金剛頂寺
Known as the 'West Temple', this henro pilgrimage temple sits on a hill above Gyodo Cape and holds many treasures, with views over the Pacific Ocean.
Kongochō-ji is Temple 26 of the 88-temple Shikoku pilgrimage. It stands opposite Tōgō-ji (the 'East Temple') at Muroto Cape, is popularly called the 'West Temple', and is traditionally said to have been founded by Kukai. The temple sits on a hill about 160 m above sea level, reached by stone steps from the car park. Its grounds include the Daishi-dō and the Reihōden, which houses cultural treasures from the Heian period, including Buddhist statues and a temple bell. Visitors are told of Kukai's 'one-grain, tenfold-thousand kettle', a miraculous pot that is said to have hung in the air through his power. The grounds offer views of the Pacific Ocean. Stamp collection (nōkyō) runs from about 7:00 to 17:00. The temple lodging (shukubo) is no longer in operation. It is about 5 minutes by car from Gyodo Cape.
Opening hours
Approx. 07:00–17:00 (sutra-copying hours)
Nearby sights
- Gyodo Cape & Kuroji Coast
- Shinsho-ji (Temple 25)
- Kiragawa Old Town
- Muroto Dolphin Center
- Muroto Skyline
- Muroto UNESCO Global Geopark Center
- Muroto Schoolhouse Aquarium
- Silest Muroto Deep Sea Water Spa