Overview
Chikurinji is one of Kochi's most storied temples, known for its nationally designated scenic garden and the quiet, dignified architecture surrounding it. This visit is guided personally by the temple's head priest or deputy priest, walking the grounds together rather than following a fixed script.
Along the way, you'll hear directly from the priest about Chikurinji's long history, the cultural background of Japanese Buddhism, and the details of the garden that matter most to the people who tend it — the kind of insight that ordinary temple sightseeing doesn't offer.
The visit ends somewhere guests don't usually reach: a quiet room overlooking the garden, for Japanese tea and traditional sweets at an unhurried pace.
Highlights
- Guided personally by the priest who cares for the temple day to day, with room for real conversation and questions — not a scripted tour.
- See the temple from the inside, through its history, culture, and faith, rather than only its buildings and garden from the outside.
Schedule
- Meet the head priest or deputy priest at Chikurinji, with introductions
- Walk the temple grounds — the main hall (entry included), the approach, the shoin hall and its scenic garden, and the oku-shoin
- Tea and traditional sweets served in the oku-shoin, with time to continue talking with the priest
- Visit ends
Meeting times are available mornings from 9:30 or afternoons from 14:00.
Optional add-ons
Available on request
- Meditation experience — adds 30 minutes to the visit, +¥3,000 per person
Practical information
- Access: About 20 minutes by car from Kochi IC on the Kochi Expressway. Bus access and on-site parking are both available.
- Language: English-language support available.
- Allergies: Accommodations can be made for allergies — please advise in advance.
- Booking deadline: Requests must be received at least 2 weeks before the tour date.
- Availability: Open year-round, subject to confirmation after inquiry.
- Cancellation policy: Free up to 11 days before the start date · 20% at 10–8 days before · 30% at 7–2 days before · 40% the day before · 50% on the day · 100% after the tour has started or in case of no-show.