Okuboji is the 88th and final temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage in Sanuki, the most sacred site where pilgrims complete their circuit. Tradition holds that Kukai opened the site during the Yoro era (717–724). A 'Bell of Completion' in the grounds is rung by grateful pilgrims, and it is customary to proceed to Koyasan to express gratitude at Kukai's mausoleum.

Okuboji Temple is traditionally said to have been founded by the monk Kukai (Kobo Daishi) during the Yoro era (717–724), when he visited the sacred site of Minegahara and carved an image of Yakushi Nyorai (the Healing Buddha). In 822, by imperial decree of Emperor Saga, Kukai is believed to have for…