Chikurinji Temple
竹林寺
Chikurinji is a large Buddhist temple on Mt. Godai, east of central Kochi City. It dates back to the early 8th century and is temple number 31 on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. Visitors walk through green grounds, see a tall five-storied pagoda, and can view old statues in the treasure hall. The temple also has gardens registered as natural monuments.
Visitor information
- Admission
Entering the main hall area to see the interiors and gardens costs a small fee.
- Getting there
The easiest way is the "My Yu Bus" from Kochi Station.
The bus from Kochi Station to Mt. Godai takes about 25 minutes; a taxi to the summit takes about 20 minutes.
Hours and fees can change. Please check the official website before you go.
Good to know
- The treasure hall holds many sacred statues from the early 8th century.
- Chikurinji has several gardens registered as natural monuments. The Makino Botanical Garden is just across the road.
Tips for Muslim visitors
- Chikurinji is Temple 31 of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Its Treasure House by the gate holds 17 Buddha statues; visitors may simply look around.
- The temple garden is a nationally designated Place of Scenic Beauty and a main reason to visit.
- Buddhist temples welcome visitors of all faiths. You can enjoy the buildings and gardens without joining any prayer, burning incense or buying charms.
- Many halls ask you to take off your shoes. Wear socks and shoes that are easy to slip off, and keep a bag for your shoes if none is provided.
- Photography is often not allowed inside halls. Follow the signs and ask staff if you are unsure.
- Plan your visit around prayer times. Below are today's prayer times for Kochi and the verified places to pray nearby.
- Food stalls and shops near popular sights usually do not have halal certification. Check the ingredients, or choose from the verified places on this site.
Prayer times in Kochi
Today (5 Nov 2026)
- Fajr04:54
- Sunrise06:28
- Dhuhr11:51
- Asr14:49
- Maghrib17:11
- Isha18:35
Times are calculated for Kochi City. Times may differ elsewhere in Kochi.
Places to pray near Chikurinji Temple
We have not verified a place to pray near here yet. Many large stations, airports and department stores in Japan have prayer rooms.
Halal food near Chikurinji Temple
We have not verified a halal restaurant near here yet. Until then, these guides can help you choose food safely:
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Map
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Photo: ikm, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Sources (Checked 5 Nov 2026): japan.travel, visitkochijapan.com, shikoku-tourism.com