The twentieth temple is Kakurin-ji (鶴林寺), the “Crane Grove Temple,” which enshrines Jizō Bosatsu near the top of Mt. Washigao.
It lies about 6.5 km from the twenty-first temple, reached by a steep mountain climb that ranks among the route’s harder ascents.
This is the entrance to Kakurin-ji. The angle of the sun left it in shadow when I photographed it, but it is a large and very fine gate.
After the long climb through the cedars, arriving at it feels like a real reward.
This is the main hall, where Jizō Bosatsu is enshrined. By legend, two white cranes once sheltered a small golden Jizō here, and statues of cranes now stand to either side in memory of the story that gave the temple its name.
Photography was not allowed at the neighbouring Daishi-dō, so I have no picture of it, but I offered my prayers at both halls all the same.
NFT – Crypto Ohenro #69 Goshuin of Kakurin-ji（鶴林寺） –
This is the goshuin of the twentieth temple, Kakurin-ji. Because the temple’s name carries the word “crane,” the seal too is stamped with a crane — a charming touch I had looked forward to.
Nineteen temples still remained on my journey, the long mountain climb now behind me.
The distance to the next temple was about 13.7 km, a fair walk down from the heights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the honzon (principal image) of Kakurin-ji (Temple 20)?
The honzon (principal image) of Kakurin-ji（鶴林寺）, Temple 20 of the Shikoku 88 pilgrimage, is Jizō Bosatsu（地蔵菩薩）. It is enshrined in the temple's main hall (hondō), where pilgrims offer incense, recite the Heart Sutra, and receive the temple's goshuin (hand-brushed seal).
Where is Kakurin-ji located?
Kakurin-ji stands in Katsuura, Tokushima Prefecture, in the old province of Awa, on the island of Shikoku, Japan. It is the twentieth of the eighty-eight temples of the Shikoku Henro, the circular Buddhist pilgrimage walked in the path of Kōbō Daishi (Kūkai).
Which Buddhist sect does Kakurin-ji belong to?
Kakurin-ji belongs to the Kōyasan school of Shingon Buddhism. Its mountain name (sangō), the traditional honorific title by which the temple is also known, is Reijuzan Hōju-in（霊鷲山 宝珠院）.
When was Kakurin-ji founded?
Kakurin-ji was founded by Kōbō Daishi (Kūkai) in 798, by order of Emperor Kanmu. Its history is closely tied to the early growth of the Shikoku pilgrimage.
Which temple comes after Kakurin-ji, and how far is it?
The next temple on the route is Temple 21, Tairyū-ji (about 6.5 km). Walking in numerical order, pilgrims continue from Kakurin-ji to keep visiting each of the 88 temples and collecting their goshuin.
📖 See the full list of all 88 Shikoku temples →
Can’t make the pilgrimage yourself?Ohenro Gift can walk the 88 temples on your behalf (daisan) and deliver the completed nokyocho.