Tosa Kokubunji Temple | Review by 黃國棟

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Tosa Kokubunji Temple

Temple with beautiful flowers associated with the Tosa Diary.

13 Nov 2026 See More

While visiting Kochi, I made a special trip to Tosa Kokubunji Temple. As soon as I entered the temple grounds, I could feel how quiet and historic the place was. Surrounded by tall trees and greenery, with old wooden buildings and stone-paved paths, the entire setting felt very pleasant, and I naturally slowed my pace as I walked around.

This is Temple No. 29 of the 88 sacred sites on Shikoku, as well as one of the provincial temples that Emperor Shomu ordered to be built throughout Japan. The entire temple area has also been designated a National Special Historic Site.

The temple's main hall was rebuilt by Chosokabe Motochika in 1558. It still retains its valuable historic character and is also an Important Cultural Property of Japan.

The temple also has a connection to the classic Japanese work The Tosa Diary, and is therefore affectionately known as the “Temple of Flowers.”

I really like temples like this without too much noise. I could quietly stroll around, admire the old buildings and surrounding natural scenery, occasionally stop to take photos, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

Compared with bustling tourist attractions, a peaceful place like this, filled with historical stories, also added a different kind of experience to my trip to Kochi.

Other Reviews by 黃國棟

Roadside Station Shodoshima Olive Park

This park is popular for its Mediterranean-like scenery and excellent facilities. There are many photo spots that make you want to take pictures, such as a white windmill perched on a hill overlooking the Seto Inland Sea and an English garden with approximately 120 varieties of herbs and roses in full bloom.
- Kagawa
- Parks & Gardens
13 Nov 2026 See More

When visiting Shodoshima, this is one attraction you really shouldn't miss! What attracted me most about Shodoshima Olive Park was the white Greek-style windmill standing on the hillside. From a distance, with the endless blue sea and clear sky in the background, the whole scene looked as beautiful as a postcard and made me want to keep taking pictures.

There are many olive trees throughout the park. When the breeze blows, the leaves sway gently, creating a leisurely atmosphere. Standing beside the windmill, you can look out over the Seto Inland Sea. The blue sky, white windmill, and ocean really make you feel as though you're on a Greek island.

This was also a filming location associated with the movie Kiki's Delivery Service. Many people pose in front of the windmill with witches' brooms, which is a lot of fun and adds even more enjoyment to the trip.

What I liked most about visiting this place was its relaxed atmosphere. I wasn't rushing through my itinerary, so I simply took my time enjoying the scenery, taking pictures, and feeling the sea breeze. It was especially relaxing.

Shodoshima certainly has a charm all its own, and this white windmill became one of the most memorable stops on my trip!
Angel Road

Located in the southwest part of Shodoshima, "Angel Road" is a sandy path that appears twice a day at low tide, connecting four islands. It's a popular spot bustling with tourists, thanks to rumors that any two people walking hand-in-hand along the path will be blessed with happiness in the future. It's also frequently used as a filming location for movies and dramas.
- Kagawa
- Tourist Attractions
13 Nov 2026 See More

When visiting Shodoshima, of course you can't miss this romantic and dreamy attraction! Angel Road is a natural sandy path that appears only at low tide. As the water recedes, several small islands that were separated by the sea become connected by a sandbar, making it a famous destination for couples in Japan.

Actually walking along the path felt really special! Looking at the endless sea and the sandy path stretching toward the islands felt like watching nature perform magic.

Along the way, you can see quite a few unusual rock formations, with ocean views on both sides. As I walked, I couldn't help stopping to take in more of the scenery and snap some photos to capture the beautiful views.

Partway along the path, there's also a uniquely shaped round structure where you can rest in the shade. It's a perfect place to stop and enjoy the ocean view when you get tired. If you continue farther, you can eventually enter a lush green forest. From the seaside to the forest, the scenery changes considerably along the way. This isn't just a romantic date spot for couples. I think it's also great for people who love nature and enjoy traveling at a slower pace.

After walking it myself, I really loved how the area hasn't been overly developed and simply lets you enjoy the sea breeze, beach, and natural scenery. If you're visiting Shodoshima, this attraction is well worth adding to your itinerary! Reminder: Angel Road appears only at low tide, so remember to check the tide times before setting out to make sure you don't miss this romantic path across the sea!
Ritsurin Garden

Used as a villa by the Matsudaira clan of Takamatsu, Ritsurin Garden was completed nearly 300 years ago by successive generations of feudal lords who renovated it. While the sprawling strolling garden covers 16 hectares, the total area of this park, including Mount Shiun in the background, extends to an impressive 75 hectares!
- Takamatsu
- Parks & Gardens
13 Nov 2026 See More

Ritsurin Garden is a three-star attraction in the French travel guide Michelin Green Guide Japan, and it is also a place well worth visiting in Takamatsu.

As soon as I entered Ritsurin Garden, I was truly stunned by the scenery before me! The entire park is very expansive, filled with lush greenery, carefully pruned pine trees, clear ponds, and layers of mountains in the distance, all coming together to create a landscape as beautiful as a painting.

There are two main walking routes, one on each side, and it takes about 1.5–2 hours to fully explore the grounds.

Unfortunately, I got a late start this time and couldn't properly explore the entire garden, which was a bit disappointing. I could only choose a few views I liked and take my time enjoying them.

What I liked most was the landscaping, which offered a different kind of beauty from every angle. The ponds reflected the pine trees and distant mountains, and when a gentle breeze blew by, ripples spread across the water, softly swaying even the reflections.

I originally thought I was just coming to visit a Japanese garden, but once I actually walked inside, it felt like I had stepped into a traditional landscape painting.

No wonder Ritsurin Garden is known as the “King of Japanese Gardens.” It truly lives up to its reputation!