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Hugo

@hugokyoto.bsky.social

16 followers 15 following 53 posts

I am a Belgian from Antwerp, having lived in Kyoto and Nara for approximately 30 years. I cover major festivals, temples, and shrines. I've done some timelapse footage, moon shooting, and vertical video with my iPhone 15 Pro Max.

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Hugo @hugokyoto.bsky.social · 1h

18. Onzan-ji: Eighteenth Temple of the Sacred Shikoku Pilgrimage in Tokushima, Japan. #kobodaishi #弘法大師 #pilgrimage #お遍路 #tokushimaprefecture #徳島県 #shikokupilgrimage #四国遍路 #japan #発心の道場 #shikoku #onzanji #恩山寺

Onzan-ji, the Eighteenth Temple, stands on a forested hillside and is renowned for its powerful story of familial love. The temple initially barred women, but when Kobo Daishi's mother travelled to see him, he performed a rigorous ritual to lift the ban. In a moving act of devotion, his mother shaved her head so she could enter as a monastic, leading Kobo Daishi to rename the temple "Mother-Nurturing Mountain, Gratitude Temple" in her honour.

The temple grounds today commemorate this story. Visitors can see the spot where his mother shaved her head and a tree Kobo Daishi planted to mark the event. The temple's atmosphere is defined by this narrative of gratitude and sacrifice, offering pilgrims a poignant reflection on compassion before they continue their journey.

Hugo @hugokyoto.bsky.social · 2d

17. Ido-ji: Seventeenth Temple of the Sacred Shikoku Pilgrimage in Tokushima, Japan. #kobodaishi #弘法大師 #pilgrimage #お遍路 #tokushimaprefecture #徳島県 #shikokupilgrimage #四国遍路 #japan #発心の道場 #shikoku #idoji #井戸寺

Ido-ji, the Seventeenth Temple, sits in the heart of Tokushima City and marks the pilgrim's final stop in the pilgrimage's first province. The temple's name, which translates to "Well Temple," originates from its founding legend, in which a priest created a freshwater well to save the village. Kobo Daishi later enshrined the temple's principal image of Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddha of Medicine, cementing the site's enduring theme of healing.

The temple's central feature is the "Well of Wisdom," from which pilgrims draw water for physical health and mental clarity. A unique statue of the guardian Bishamonten, who holds a flute instead of a weapon, offers a gentle and protective presence. Completing the rituals at Ido-ji prepares pilgrims to cross the Yoshino River and begin the next, more arduous stage of their journey.

Hugo @hugokyoto.bsky.social · 3d

16. Kannon-ji (観音寺): Sixteenth Temple of the Sacred Shikoku Pilgrimage in Tokushima, Japan. #kobodaishi #弘法大師 #pilgrimage #お遍路 #tokushimaprefecture #徳島県 #shikokupilgrimage #四国遍路 #japan #発心の道場 #shikoku #kannonji #観音寺

Kannon-ji, the Sixteenth Temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, rests peacefully in Tokushima City and embodies a deep history of compassion and resilience. Founded in the 8th century, the temple's spiritual significance stems from the legendary monk Kobo Daishi, who carved its principal image of Senju Kannon, the Thousand-Armed Bodhisattva of Compassion. Despite facing destruction by a 16th-century warlord, the temple was lovingly rebuilt, and it continues to offer pilgrims a serene space for reflection on their journey toward enlightenment.

The temple grounds captivate visitors with intimate and poignant details. Two features stand out: the "Crying Jizo," a statue where parents pray for their children's health, and a haunting votive plaque that depicts a pilgrim engulfed in flames as a divine punishment for mistreating her mother-in-law. These powerful elements, along with the striking bell tower gate, make Kannon-ji a memorable stop that emphasises the pilgrimage's core themes of repentance, compassion, and karmic consequence.

Hugo @hugokyoto.bsky.social · 6d

Jōraku-ji: Fourteenth Temple of the Sacred Shikoku Pilgrimage in Tokushima, Japan. #kobodaishi #弘法大師 #pilgrimage #お遍路 #tokushimaprefecture #徳島県 #shikokupilgrimage #四国遍路 #japan #発心の道場 #shikoku #jorakuji #常楽寺

Jōraku-ji offers a unique experience on the Shikoku Pilgrimage as the only temple dedicated to Miroku Bosatsu, the future Buddha of compassionate hope. The temple's origin dates back to its founding by Kobo Daishi, who, at the age of 42, had a vision of Miroku Bosatsu and carved its principal image from a sacred tree.

Despite being destroyed in war during the 16th century, the temple was rebuilt resiliently in the Edo period and later relocated to its current site, which features a distinctive rock garden. Today, visitors encounter several notable features, including a massive yew tree used for healing prayers and a statue of Jizo Bosatsu, dedicated to children's ailments, alongside a social welfare facility named Jorakuen, which has been caring for children since 1955.

Hugo @hugokyoto.bsky.social · 8d

Jōraku-ji: Fourteenth Temple of the Sacred Shikoku Pilgrimage in Tokushima, Japan. #kobodaishi #弘法大師 #pilgrimage #お遍路 #tokushimaprefecture #徳島県 #shikokupilgrimage #四国遍路 #japan #発心の道場 #shikoku #jorakuji #常楽寺

Jōraku-ji offers a unique experience on the Shikoku Pilgrimage as the only temple dedicated to Miroku Bosatsu, the future Buddha of compassionate hope. The temple's origin dates back to its founding by Kobo Daishi, who, at the age of 42, had a vision of Miroku Bosatsu and carved its principal image from a sacred tree.

Despite being destroyed in war during the 16th century, the temple was rebuilt resiliently in the Edo period and later relocated to its current site, which features a distinctive rock garden. Today, visitors encounter several notable features, including a massive yew tree used for healing prayers and a statue of Jizo Bosatsu, dedicated to children's ailments, alongside a social welfare facility named Jorakuen, which has been caring for children since 1955.

Hugo @hugokyoto.bsky.social · 8d

13. Dainichi-ji: (大日寺) Thirteenth Temple of the Sacred Shikoku Pilgrimage in Tokushima, Japan. #kobodaishi #弘法大師 #pilgrimage #お遍路 #tokushimaprefecture #徳島県 #shikokupilgrimage #四国遍路 #japan #発心の道場 #shikoku #dainichiji #大日寺 #No13DainichiTemple #第13番札所

Dainichiji (Temple 13), also known as the "Great Sun Temple," offers pilgrims spiritual comfort and refreshment after the challenging ascent to Shōsanji. Located in a peaceful valley, it enshrines Dainichi Nyorai (the cosmic Buddha), a statue believed to be carved by Kōbō Daishi. The temple is known for its welcoming atmosphere and its iconic large straw sandal (otsue waraji), which symbolises a prayer for strong, healthy feet for the journey ahead, marking a transition from hardship to serene contemplation on the pilgrimage path.

Hugo @hugokyoto.bsky.social · 13d

Shōsanji (焼山寺): The Twelfth Temple of Shikoku's Sacred Pilgrimage. #kobodaishi #弘法大師 #pilgrimage #お遍路 #tokushimaprefecture #徳島県 #shikokupilgrimage #四国遍路 #japan #発心の道場 #shikoku #shosanji #焼山寺 #第12番札所

Shōsanji, the twelfth temple on Shikoku's Sacred Pilgrimage, presents pilgrims with their most physically demanding challenge—a steep mountain ascent that requires several hours to complete. Founded in the 8th century by Gyōki and later sanctified by Kōbō Daishi (Kūkai), the temple features traditional architecture that harmonises with its natural surroundings. Its spiritual focus centres on Jūichimen Kannon, the Eleven-Headed Bodhisattva of Compassion. The pilgrimage experience involves austere rituals and potential overnight stays that transform physical effort into spiritual renewal. Beyond religious practice, Shōsanji maintains a significant cultural presence through local folklore, artistic representations, and seasonal festivals that commemorate its legendary origins, making it an unforgettable highlight of the Shikoku pilgrimage circuit.

Hugo @hugokyoto.bsky.social · 20d

Red Spider Lilies at Butsuryū-ji Temple in Uda, Nara-ken.

A short Video clip of this fantastic place, unique in the Kansai Area of Japan. This is the number one spot to experience the magnificent colours of the Spider Lilies, set against the backdrop of an ancient temple.

iPhone 15 Pro Max
9-24,25

Hugo @hugokyoto.bsky.social · 22d

The Flame Within the Flower: Red Spider Lilies at Butsuryū-ji Temple in Uda, Nara.
#redspiderlily #higanbana #ひがんばな #autumn2025 #nara #narajapan #flowerstagram #manjushage #lycorisradiata #discoverjapan #photography #JapanWanderlust #travelphotography #japantravelphoto #traveltheworld #仏隆寺 #佛隆寺

Hugo @hugokyoto.bsky.social · 22d

Pt . 2: 10. Kirihata-ji: “Mountain of Ordination”, Tenth Temple of the Sacred Shikoku Pilgrimage.
#kobodaishi #弘法大師 #pilgrimage #お遍路 #tokushimaprefecture #徳島県 #shikokupilgrimage #四国遍路 #japan #発心の道場 #shikoku #kirihataji #切幡寺

Kirihata-ji, the Tenth Temple on Shikoku, is famous for its large, interactive prayer beads that pilgrims pull to create a loud clicking sound for prayer. It marks a symbolic first rest stop on the pilgrimage and is known for its association with Kōbō Daishi, its serene mountain setting, and its dedication to Senjū Kannon.

Hugo @hugokyoto.bsky.social · 22d

10. Kirihata-ji: “Mountain of Ordination”, Tenth Temple of the Sacred Shikoku Pilgrimage.
#kobodaishi #弘法大師 #pilgrimage #お遍路 #tokushimaprefecture #徳島県 #shikokupilgrimage #四国遍路 #japan #発心の道場 #shikoku #kirihataji #切幡寺

Kirihata-ji, the Tenth Temple on Shikoku, is famous for its large, interactive prayer beads that pilgrims pull to create a loud clicking sound for prayer. It marks a symbolic first rest stop on the pilgrimage and is known for its association with Kōbō Daishi, its serene mountain setting, and its dedication to Senjū Kannon.

Hugo @hugokyoto.bsky.social · 23d

Pt. 3: Hōrin-ji: ninth Temple of the Sacred Shikoku Pilgrimage in Tokushima, Japan.
#kobodaishi #弘法大師 #pilgrimage #お遍路 #tokushimaprefecture #徳島県 #shikokupilgrimage #四国遍路 #japan #発心の道場 #shikoku #horinji #法輪寺

Hōrin-ji (Temple 9) was founded by Kūkai in 815 after he discovered a white snake, considered divine, at the original site. He carved a reclining Parinirvana Shakyamuni statue — the only such honzon on the Shikoku Pilgrimage. After suffering destruction by fire (in 1582 and again later), the temple was relocated in the mid-1600s to its current location and rebuilt. It holds a robe of Kūkai given by Emperor Meiji, and is mainly visited by pilgrims seeking healing for leg or lower-body ailments (symbolised by offerings of straw sandals).

Hugo @hugokyoto.bsky.social · 23d

Pt. 2: Hōrin-ji: ninth Temple of the Sacred Shikoku Pilgrimage in Tokushima, Japan.
#kobodaishi #弘法大師 #pilgrimage #お遍路 #tokushimaprefecture #徳島県 #shikokupilgrimage #四国遍路 #japan #発心の道場 #shikoku #horinji #法輪寺

Hōrin-ji (Temple 9) was founded by Kūkai in 815 after he discovered a white snake, considered divine, at the original site. He carved a reclining Parinirvana Shakyamuni statue — the only such honzon on the Shikoku Pilgrimage. After suffering destruction by fire (in 1582 and again later), the temple was relocated in the mid-1600s to its current location and rebuilt. It holds a robe of Kūkai given by Emperor Meiji, and is mainly visited by pilgrims seeking healing for leg or lower-body ailments (symbolised by offerings of straw sandals).

Hugo @hugokyoto.bsky.social · 23d

Hōrin-ji: ninth Temple of the Sacred Shikoku Pilgrimage in Tokushima, Japan.
#kobodaishi #弘法大師 #pilgrimage #お遍路 #tokushimaprefecture #徳島県 #shikokupilgrimage #四国遍路 #japan #発心の道場 #shikoku #horinji #法輪寺

Hōrin-ji (Temple 9) was founded by Kūkai in 815 after he discovered a white snake, considered divine, at the original site. He carved a reclining Parinirvana Shakyamuni statue — the only such honzon on the Shikoku Pilgrimage. After suffering destruction by fire (in 1582 and again later), the temple was relocated in the mid-1600s to its current location and rebuilt. It holds a robe of Kūkai given by Emperor Meiji, and is mainly visited by pilgrims seeking healing for leg or lower-body ailments (symbolised by offerings of straw sandals).

Hugo @hugokyoto.bsky.social · 24d

Red Spider Lilies at Butsuryū-ji Temple in Uda, Nara-ken.

I visited Butsuryū-ji today and arrived on time to see the majestic crimson lilies along the 200 stone steps. #redspiderlily #higanbana #ひがんばな #nara #narajapan #manjushage #lycorisradiata #discoverjapan #JapanWanderlust #仏隆寺 #佛隆寺

Butsuryū-ji Temple (仏隆寺) is famous in late September for its long stone staircase lined with vivid red spider lilies (ひがんばな), especially striking during the autumn equinox (Higan). The flowers, rich in Buddhist symbolism and cultural history, transform the steps into a scene likened to a path to the Pure Land. Once nearly destroyed by wildlife, the lilies have been successfully restored through the dedicated efforts of local volunteers and community support, ensuring the temple's breathtaking seasonal display continues each year.

Hugo @hugokyoto.bsky.social · 25d

Pt 3: Kumadani-ji: Eight Temple of the Sacred Shikoku Pilgrimage in Tokushima, Japan.
#kobodaishi #弘法大師 #pilgrimage #お遍路 #tokushimaprefecture #徳島県 #shikokupilgrimage #四国遍路 #japan #発心の道場 #shikoku #kumadaniji #熊谷寺 #熊谷寺四国

Founded by Kūkai in 815 after receiving a golden Kannon statue from the deity Kumano Gongen, Kumadani-ji enshrines Senjū Kannon as its central image. The temple is noted for its massive Niōmon gate (1687), elegant Daishidō (1707), and a two-storied pagoda (1774). Though the Hondō and original image were lost to fire in 1927, they were rebuilt and reconsecrated in 1946. A pond with a Benzaiten shrine is also popular for prayers for safe childbirth.

Hugo @hugokyoto.bsky.social · 25d

Pt 2: Kumadani-ji: Eight Temple of the Sacred Shikoku Pilgrimage in Tokushima, Japan.
#kobodaishi #弘法大師 #pilgrimage #お遍路 #tokushimaprefecture #徳島県 #shikokupilgrimage #四国遍路 #japan #発心の道場 #shikoku #kumadaniji #熊谷寺 #熊谷寺四国

Founded by Kūkai in 815 after receiving a golden Kannon statue from the deity Kumano Gongen, Kumadani-ji enshrines Senjū Kannon as its central image. The temple is noted for its massive Niōmon gate (1687), elegant Daishidō (1707), and a two-storied pagoda (1774). Though the Hondō and original image were lost to fire in 1927, they were rebuilt and reconsecrated in 1946. A pond with a Benzaiten shrine is also popular for prayers for safe childbirth.

Hugo @hugokyoto.bsky.social · 25d

Kumadani-ji: Eight Temple of the Sacred Shikoku Pilgrimage in Tokushima, Japan.
#kobodaishi #弘法大師 #pilgrimage #お遍路 #tokushimaprefecture #徳島県 #shikokupilgrimage #四国遍路 #japan #発心の道場 #shikoku #kumadaniji #熊谷寺 #熊谷寺四国

Founded by Kūkai in 815 after receiving a golden Kannon statue from the deity Kumano Gongen, Kumadani-ji enshrines Senjū Kannon as its central image. The temple is noted for its massive Niōmon gate (1687), elegant Daishidō (1707), and a two-storied pagoda (1774). Though the Hondō and original image were lost to fire in 1927, they were rebuilt and reconsecrated in 1946. A pond with a Benzaiten shrine is also popular for prayers for safe childbirth.

Hugo @hugokyoto.bsky.social · 28d

Pt. 2: 07. Jūraku-ji (十楽寺): Seventh Temple of the Sacred Shikoku Pilgrimage.
#kobodaishi #弘法大師 #pilgrimage #お遍路 #tokushimaprefecture #徳島県 #shikokupilgrimage #四国遍路 #japan #発心の道場 #shikoku #jurakuji #十楽寺

Founded by Kūkai in the early 9th century, Jūraku-ji is dedicated to Amida Nyorai and symbolises the “Ten Joys” that shine even amid life’s hardships. Destroyed in warfare in the 1500s and rebuilt at its current site in 1635, the temple today features striking vermilion gates, a healing Eye-Curing Jizō that is popular with pilgrims, and an Aizen Myō-ō Hall for prayers related to relationships.
Other highlights include Mizuko Jizō statues for unborn children, a 300-year-old “parent and child pine,” and a war memorial with Fudō Myō-ō statues. The main hall was most recently rebuilt in 1994, and the temple also offers pilgrim lodging.

Hugo @hugokyoto.bsky.social · 28d

07. Jūraku-ji (十楽寺): Seventh Temple of the Sacred Shikoku Pilgrimage.
#kobodaishi #弘法大師 #pilgrimage #お遍路 #tokushimaprefecture #徳島県 #shikokupilgrimage #四国遍路 #japan #発心の道場 #shikoku #jurakuji #十楽寺

Founded by Kūkai in the early 9th century, Jūraku-ji is dedicated to Amida Nyorai and symbolises the “Ten Joys” that shine even amid life’s hardships. Destroyed in warfare in the 1500s and rebuilt at its current site in 1635, the temple today features striking vermilion gates, a healing Eye-Curing Jizō that is popular with pilgrims, and an Aizen Myō-ō Hall for prayers related to relationships.
Other highlights include Mizuko Jizō statues for unborn children, a 300-year-old “parent and child pine,” and a war memorial with Fudō Myō-ō statues. The main hall was most recently rebuilt in 1994, and the temple also offers pilgrim lodging.

Hugo @hugokyoto.bsky.social · Sep 17

Pt . 3: Anraku-ji: Sixth Temple of the Sacred Shikoku Pilgrimage in Tokushima, Japan.

#kobodaishi #弘法大師 #pilgrimage #お遍路 #tokushimaprefecture #徳島県 #shikokupilgrimage #四国遍路 #japan #発心の道場 #shikoku #anrakuji #安楽寺

Anraku-ji, the sixth temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, is famously known as "Onsen Mountain" for its deep historical connection to healing hot springs. The area's iron-colored springs were long believed to alleviate various ailments, a reputation that persists to this day. This healing theme is central to the temple's identity, further emphasised by its historical role as an official rest stop, or *ekiroji*, for pilgrims. Established as such by a local lord in the 16th century, its *shukubō* (pilgrim lodging) has offered travellers respite for over 400 years.

The temple grounds are rich with art and legend. They house over 60 modern Buddhist statues by the sculptor Matsumoto Myōkei, created in the classical style of Unkei and Kaikei. Among the many stories associated with Anraku-ji is that of a woman who was cured of a spinal disease after completing the pilgrimage and who later dedicated a statue of Yakushi Nyorai (the Buddha of Healing) in gratitude. Another legend tells of a pine tree planted by the pilgrimage's founder, Kūkai, which is said to have protected him from an arrow during his unlucky 42nd year.

Hugo @hugokyoto.bsky.social · Sep 17

Pt . 2: Anraku-ji: Sixth Temple of the Sacred Shikoku Pilgrimage in Tokushima, Japan.

#kobodaishi #弘法大師 #pilgrimage #お遍路 #tokushimaprefecture #徳島県 #shikokupilgrimage #四国遍路 #japan #発心の道場 #shikoku #anrakuji #安楽寺

Anraku-ji, the sixth temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, is famously known as "Onsen Mountain" for its deep historical connection to healing hot springs. The area's iron-colored springs were long believed to alleviate various ailments, a reputation that persists to this day. This healing theme is central to the temple's identity, further emphasised by its historical role as an official rest stop, or *ekiroji*, for pilgrims. Established as such by a local lord in the 16th century, its *shukubō* (pilgrim lodging) has offered travellers respite for over 400 years.

The temple grounds are rich with art and legend. They house over 60 modern Buddhist statues by the sculptor Matsumoto Myōkei, created in the classical style of Unkei and Kaikei. Among the many stories associated with Anraku-ji is that of a woman who was cured of a spinal disease after completing the pilgrimage and who later dedicated a statue of Yakushi Nyorai (the Buddha of Healing) in gratitude. Another legend tells of a pine tree planted by the pilgrimage's founder, Kūkai, which is said to have protected him from an arrow during his unlucky 42nd year.

Hugo @hugokyoto.bsky.social · Sep 17

Anraku-ji: Sixth Temple of the Sacred Shikoku Pilgrimage in Tokushima, Japan.

#kobodaishi #弘法大師 #pilgrimage #お遍路 #tokushimaprefecture #徳島県 #shikokupilgrimage #四国遍路 #japan #発心の道場 #shikoku #anrakuji #安楽寺

Anraku-ji, the sixth temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, is famously known as "Onsen Mountain" for its deep historical connection to healing hot springs. The area's iron-colored springs were long believed to alleviate various ailments, a reputation that persists to this day. This healing theme is central to the temple's identity, further emphasised by its historical role as an official rest stop, or *ekiroji*, for pilgrims. Established as such by a local lord in the 16th century, its *shukubō* (pilgrim lodging) has offered travellers respite for over 400 years.

The temple grounds are rich with art and legend. They house over 60 modern Buddhist statues by the sculptor Matsumoto Myōkei, created in the classical style of Unkei and Kaikei. Among the many stories associated with Anraku-ji is that of a woman who was cured of a spinal disease after completing the pilgrimage and who later dedicated a statue of Yakushi Nyorai (the Buddha of Healing) in gratitude. Another legend tells of a pine tree planted by the pilgrimage's founder, Kūkai, which is said to have protected him from an arrow during his unlucky 42nd year.

Hugo @hugokyoto.bsky.social · Sep 15

Pt3: 05. Jizō-ji: Fifth Temple of the Sacred Shikoku Pilgrimage. #kobodaishi #弘法大師 #pilgrimage #お遍路 #tokushimaprefecture #徳島県 #shikokupilgrimage #四国遍路 #japan #発心の道場 #shikoku #jizoji #地蔵寺 #五百羅漢 #rakan #羅漢

Located in Tokushima, this Shingon temple is dedicated to Jizō Bosatsu, the guardian of travellers, children, and the suffering. Founded by Gyōgi and later associated with Kōbō Daishi, it is known for its many Jizō statues and a set of 500 Rakan figures. Pilgrims come here to pray for safe journeys, children’s protection, and healing (especially for eye ailments). Though modest in size, the temple has a serene, intimate atmosphere, with mossy statues and lanterns. As the fifth stop on the pilgrimage, it feels like a protective gateway, giving pilgrims encouragement for the long path ahead.

Hugo @hugokyoto.bsky.social · Sep 15

Pt2: 05. Jizō-ji: Fifth Temple of the Sacred Shikoku Pilgrimage. #kobodaishi #弘法大師 #pilgrimage #お遍路 #tokushimaprefecture #徳島県 #shikokupilgrimage #四国遍路 #japan #発心の道場 #shikoku #jizoji #地蔵寺 #五百羅漢 #rakan #羅漢

Located in Tokushima, this Shingon temple is dedicated to Jizō Bosatsu, the guardian of travellers, children, and the suffering. Founded by Gyōgi and later associated with Kōbō Daishi, it is known for its many Jizō statues and a set of 500 Rakan figures. Pilgrims come here to pray for safe journeys, children’s protection, and healing (especially for eye ailments). Though modest in size, the temple has a serene, intimate atmosphere, with mossy statues and lanterns. As the fifth stop on the pilgrimage, it feels like a protective gateway, giving pilgrims encouragement for the long path ahead.