Place of worship • 738 Naoshima, Kagawa District, Kagawa 761-3110, Japan
Naoshima is home to Gokuraku-ji Temple, said to have been built around 850 AD. While the main buildings such as the main hall, mountain gate, and guest hall were built during the Edo period in the mid-Genroku era, you can feel the weight of history from its appearance.
Walking through the temple grounds, you can encounter the atmosphere of the Hachiman Shrine and Goo Shrine on the eastern mountain. Furthermore, on the northern side, you can find the graves of the Takahara clan who once ruled Naoshima, as well as the graves of a military man native to this island, allowing you to trace the footsteps of great figures associated with Naoshima.
There is a parking lot on the temple grounds, allowing access by car. In the summer, insect repellent spray is necessary, but you can immerse yourself in the serene temple grounds. At Gokuraku-ji Temple, you can not only feel the history of Naoshima, but also discover the traditional beauty of Japan amidst the backdrop of the eastern mountains. You should be able to catch a glimpse of the entrance to the Pure Land of Gokuraku, and I hope that everyone who visits can savor the charm of this captivating temple.