19 Tatsue-ji

Tatsue-ji is the 19th temple on the Shikoku Henro, Japan's famous 1,200-kilometer pilgrimage circuit linking 88 Buddhist temples across Shikoku island. The temple belongs to the Kōyasan branch of Shingon Buddhism, an esoteric tradition introduced by the monk Kūkai in the early 9th century; pilgrims believe they walk in his spiritual company, expressed in the phrase 'Dōgyō ninin' — we walk together. Located in Komatsushima in Tokushima Prefecture, Tatsue-ji sits near the coastal stretch of the route before the path climbs into the inland hills. White-robed pilgrims (ohenro-san) carrying wooden staffs are a constant presence at the grounds, though casual visitors are equally welcome.