Zentsuji Temple, Temple 75 of the Shikoku 88-temple pilgrimage and the birthplace of the revered monk Kūkai (Kōbō Daishi), is one of the most historically significant Buddhist sites in Japan. In spring, the broad stone-paved sando approach and temple precincts fill with cherry blossoms, blending pilgrimage solemnity with seasonal beauty. The five-storey pagoda, one of the tallest original wooden pagodas in western Japan, rises above the cherry canopy as an iconic visual. An underground corridor beneath the main hall—walked in total darkness to symbolise enlightenment—is a memorable experience to pair with the outdoor blossom viewing. White-robed ohenro pilgrims among the blossoms create one of Shikoku's most evocative spring images.
- Type
- Experience
- Category
- Cherry Blossom
- Season
- Spring
- Month
- Late March to Early April
- Region
- Shikoku
- Prefecture
- Kagawa
- City
- Zentsuji
Highlights
- ◆Birthplace of Kūkai (Kōbō Daishi), founder of Shingon Buddhism
- ◆Tall wooden pagoda rising above cherry blossom canopy
- ◆Darkness corridor experience beneath the main hall
- ◆White-robed pilgrims walking among blossoms—a timeless visual
- ◆Large temple precinct with multiple blossom-viewing vantage points