Spring is here! Renew your soul!

In this season of new leaves and rebirth, consider going on a trip to cleanse your soul.

You may know that there is the 88 Temple Pilgrimage in Shikoku. They are popular among all ages. The warmer weather makes springtime a popular time for making a pilgrimage. There are many temples in Kochi, from No. 24 in the east to 39 in the west. It can be hard to know where to begin, but you can start with a visit to your nearest temple (map: right).

 If you wish to get some positive energy for the new season, let me introduce you to some of the so-called “Power Spots”. Tosa Shrine (Ikku, Kochi City) is not only famous for the god of success in business, but it has also been the guardian deity of Tosa since it was founded in the year 460.

Tosa Shrine is mentioned in the Nihon-shoki (the chronicles of Japan) in the year 720. The current shrine was rebuilt by Chosogabe Motochika who was the lord of Kochi. In the garden, there are huge stones and many old trees. A stone called Tsubute-ishi is thought to have particularly strong energy, and every August they hold a big festival called Shinane-sama, where many people come to pray. This shrine, which has been looking after Tosa for a long time, exudes glory and sacred power.



Tojindaba





Shirayama-domon

 The next is Tojindaba (Tosashimizu City) at Cape Ashizuri. Cape Ashizuri is located in the south west of Shikoku. The Tojindaba are a group of gigantic stones placed in that area that are said to be 10,000 years old. It is still a mystery as to how such huge stones were moved and piled. When I lay down on one of the stones, it was as if I could feel the energy from the earth and the cosmos.

 Also in Ashizuri, you can find Shirayama-domon. This huge rock was eroded by waves to form a natural tunnel. From some directions this tunnel appears heart shaped. You may want to wish for success in love here! Let’s enjoy spring with a clean heart and full of energy!