Shidoji Temple

Shidoji is the 86th temple on the 88-temple Shikoku Pilgrimage, close enough to the end that many pilgrims arrive visibly lighter in step. The Niomon gate, flanked by statues attributed to 12th-century master sculptor Unkei, was donated by the Takamatsu domain lord in 1671, the same year he had the Main Hall rebuilt. Both are Important Cultural Properties. The bright red 33-meter pagoda was added in 1975, and a dry garden by landscape architect Shigemori Mirei adds a quieter counterpoint. The temple's main deity is only displayed to the public once a year, on July 16. The Datsueba hall opens on the 17th of each month.