Shusekiji

Agreed as to one of the most beautiful temples and a literal high point of my pilgrimage. Must say though, attempting the bekkaku 20 at same time as the 88 proved an immense challenge, but with some great rewards! I'll be back in early October 2025 to hit B20 which was beyond hope for me in mid January. Had I researched better I would have hit B20 first before doing T11-T12.

B7 was a logistical challenge, however I was able to find their web site and send an e-mail asking if shokubo was available. I received a prompt reply saying yes, when would I like to come. I hovered a few days in Ozu awaiting better weather, then started my climb early from Iyo Hirano Station. What a climb! It was my first really cold wet day (December 7th). My misery must have been visible on my face on arrival at 14:00 as one of the staff members rushed me to my room within the temple straightaway. The place is old, cold, creaky, windows rattling kind of spooky. The staff of three made me feel welcome and comfortable. I was able to do laundry and take a very hot bath. Morning service is goma ritual. In the freezing cold dark it made quite an impression with just myself in attendance and the priest who performs goma every day and night with unflagging devotion. Next day was warmer and dryer, and though I mostly followed the road directly down to Ozu it was a long march to town.

If you go I highly recommend you make the effort to stay the night, though it can be done in a day if you can handle the distance and bear a short visit to a place that merits your attention. No food, either on the trail or at temple. I brought instant noodles and oodles of snacks as well as plenty of fluids. Staff provided hot water for tea and noodles and I could refill my water bottles at temple before descending.

Definitely one of the best experiences of my pilgrimage, and that's a rich field of candidates!

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For me the most beautiful temple on the whole henro road. The view down to the valley and to the sea on the other side is particularly beautiful. If you have just one extra day, go here.

If I understood the temple staff right there is a hostel on the premises. I am not sure how to use it though, suggest to phone ahead.

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