Setouchi Tourism Lemon 
Standing statue of Sho Kannon, Kasamatsu Daishi, and Saigyo’s Napping Stone (Stone that Saigyo, a poet monk at the end of the Heian period, used to take a nap when he went to this temple)
What are the highlights of the 72nd temple “Mandara-ji”?
Mandara-dera Temple is said to be the oldest temple in Shikoku’s sacred sites. The principal image is Dainichi Nyorai, and the sect is the Zentsuji sect of the Shingon sect. As a sacred site connected to Kobo Daishi, many pilgrims visit throughout the year.
Hymn: “Those who even slightly worship the mandala will never return again or thrice.”
Three points to visit Mandala Temple
① Best time to visit the shrine
The temple grounds change with the seasons, with cherry blossoms in the spring, green leaves in the summer, red leaves in the fall, and silence in the winter, giving it a different feel no matter when you visit. Especially the fresh green leaves in May and the autumn leaves in November are perfect for photography.
② Suggested time needed
Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour to visit the shrine, pray, and walk around the temple grounds. It is crowded on weekends and during the spring and autumn pilgrimage seasons, so we recommend visiting early in the morning and planning your visit with plenty of time.
③ Necessary items for the pilgrimage and process of worshiping
Basic information of Mandala Temple
How to access Mandala Temple
By car: From the nearest IC on the Takamatsu Expressway/Matsuyama Expressway, head towards Zentsuji City. For details, please refer to the address in the basic information.
Public transportation: Take a taxi or bus from the nearest JR station. It is also convenient to take a taxi to visit sacred sites or a pilgrimage bus tour.
Nearby temples that you should visit along with Mandala Temple
It is common to visit the 88 sacred sites in Shikoku in numerical order. You can have an even more fulfilling pilgrimage experience by visiting the temples before and after Mandara-ji Temple, as well as temples within Zentsuji City.
Frequently asked questions about Mandala Temple/Pilgrimage
Q1. What is the delivery time (goshuin stamp reception time)?
Pilgrimage delivery times are usually 7:00-17:00 (officially 7:00-17:00). Goshuin stamps and Buddhist sutras cannot be received outside of these hours, so please plan your visit accordingly.
Q2. Are there admission fees and parking fees?
You can visit the shrine grounds for free, but there are some temples that require a separate parking fee (about 200 to 500 yen for a regular car) and entrance fee to the treasure hall.
Q3. What are the benefits of visiting the shrine in pilgrimage costumes?
Pilgrimage costumes such as a white robe, a robe, and a vajra cane are not only formal, but also have benefits such as making it easier to receive entertainment and calming your mind. Rentals and purchases are possible at temples such as Ryozen-ji Temple, the No. 1 temple.
Q4. Where can I receive a Goshuin (Nokyo)?
You can receive it for about 500 yen at the nokyo office of each temple. Many people visit with a three-piece set that includes a notebook, a white coat, and a hanging scroll, and a notebook can be purchased for around 700 to 2,000 yen.
Q5. Which is better: a pilgrimage by car or a walking pilgrimage?
Choose according to your time and physical strength. A car pilgrimage can be completed in 10 to 14 days, while a walking pilgrimage takes 40 to 50 days, but offers a more profound experience. Rental cars, bus tours, and taxi pilgrimages are also popular.
Q6. Can a beginner start the pilgrimage?
Of course it is possible. In addition to the toruuchi, which visits 88 locations all at once, it is also common to perform the pilgrimage in sections. You can play the game in either order, starting from number 1, or reverse the game, allowing you to play at your own pace.
Summary | Mandara-dera Temple, the 72nd temple you must visit on your pilgrimage
Temple No. 72 of the 88 Sacred Sites in Shikoku, Mandara-ji Temple, is said to be the oldest temple in Shikoku. If you come to Zentsuji City, Kagawa Prefecture, please make this a day of your pilgrimage. Time to calm your mind and experience the history and Buddhist culture of Shikoku awaits you.
Photo provided by:shikoku-guide.com
