Iwamoto-ji: the art-lover's temple!

While all of the stops on the Shikoku 88 temple pilgrimage are special, we think that Iwamoto-ji (which is the 37th temple) may be one of the most memorable. When the main hall was refurbished in 1978, the ceiling was decorated with 575 paintings from artists all over Japan. The subjects vary from traditional images of nature and the Buddha, to unusual paintings of Marilyn Monroe, sailboats and cats! The current head priest is clearly equally creative, as the temple collaborates with pop artists to bring an additional splash of color to the grounds.

The temple offers lodging in a colorful, pop-art inspired room (and even camping!), along with a variety of experiences, such as sake tasting, a sauna and spiritual training along the Shimanto River: https://at40010.jp/en/iwamotoji/

Iwamoto-ji Temple is just a short walk away from Kubokawa Station on the Dosan Line

Be sure to check out all the interesting art in the post photos, and find out a bit more about the Shikoku 88 temple pilgrimage here: https://visitkochijapan.com/en/highlights/henro