Yakuriji Temple is the 85th temple of the 88 sacred sites of Shikoku, located halfway up Mount Goken at an elevation of approximately 375 meters in Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture. Located in a scenic spot that was once the site of the famous Battle of Yashima, this fascinating temple blends history and scenery. Visitors typically arrive by cable car, which takes just four minutes to reach the summit station. The view of the Seto Inland Sea from the cable car is also exceptional.

From the summit station, the temple grounds are a short walk along the quaint approach. The striking feature is the vibrant vermilion pagoda (a national important cultural property). Its beauty, contrasting beautifully with the greenery of Mount Goken and the blue sky, attracts many worshippers and tourists. The main hall and Daishi hall are built close to the rock face, evoking a sense of the harsh natural environment and profound faith of this region. The temple grounds also offer a spectacular view of the Seto Inland Sea's many islands and Takamatsu cityscape, a sight that's particularly breathtaking at sunset.

Yakuriji Temple is a historic temple where Kobo Daishi Kukai is said to have enshrined Kokuzo Bosatsu, and is said to grant blessings for business prosperity and academic success. Its easy access makes it a popular spot not only for pilgrims but also for general tourists.

According to temple legend, when Kukai (Kobo Daishi) performed the Kokuzo Gumonji ritual here, five swords descended from the heavens and Zao Gongen appeared, declaring that this was a sacred place.

The main hall, an octagonal building approximately 20 meters tall, is a designated National Important Cultural Property. The principal image, a standing wooden statue of Shokannon Bodhisattva, is also designated National Important Cultural Property.