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Tatsueji – Komatsushima, Tokushima Prefecture, Shikoku • Henro

Tatsueji (立江寺) is temple 19 of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, located in Komatsushima, Tokushima Prefecture. Nestled among lush forests and rolling hills, this temple exudes serenity and spiritual significance. Dedicated to Enmei Jizō Bosatsu (延命地蔵菩薩), a deity believed to grant longevity and protection, it offers a tranquil escape into Japan's rich cultural heritage. Pilgrims dressed in traditional attire further enrich the sacred atmosphere, making it a truly timeless experience.

Geography and Access:

Tatsueji is situated on the eastern side of Shikoku Island, an area known for its natural beauty and deeply spiritual roots. The temple is surrounded by cedar trees and scenic countryside, embodying the tranquility of the Shikoku Pilgrimage.

From Tokyo:

Fly from Haneda or Narita Airport to Tokushima Awaodori Airport (approx. 1.5 hours).

From the airport, take a bus or taxi to Komatsushima (about 40 minutes). Tatsueji is a short taxi ride from the city center.

From Osaka:

Take a direct flight from Kansai International Airport to Tokushima Awaodori Airport (about 45 minutes).

Alternatively, travel via train or bus to Tokushima City (approx. 2.5 hours). From there, take a bus or taxi to Komatsushima, and then to the temple.

Exploring this temple provides not only spiritual fulfillment but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in Japan’s profound cultural and natural wonders.

Tatsueji (立江寺) is temple 19 of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, located in Komatsushima, Tokushima Prefecture. Nestled among lush forests and rolling hills, this temple exudes serenity and spiritual significance. Dedicated to Enmei Jizō Bosatsu (延命地蔵菩薩), a deity believed to grant longevity and protection, it offers a tranquil escape into Japan's rich cultural heritage. Pilgrims dressed in traditional attire further enrich the sacred atmosphere, making it a truly timeless experience.

Geography and Access:

Tatsueji is situated on the eastern side of Shikoku Island, an area known for its natural beauty and deeply spiritual roots. The temple is surrounded by cedar trees and scenic countryside, embodying the tranquility of the Shikoku Pilgrimage.

From Tokyo:

Fly from Haneda or Narita Airport to Tokushima Awaodori Airport (approx. 1.5 hours).

From the airport, take a bus or taxi to Komatsushima (about 40 minutes). Tatsueji is a short taxi ride from the city center.

From Osaka:

Take a direct flight from Kansai International Airport to Tokushima Awaodori Airport (about 45 minutes).

Alternatively, travel via train or bus to Tokushima City (approx. 2.5 hours). From there, take a bus or taxi to Komatsushima, and then to the temple.

Exploring this temple provides not only spiritual fulfillment but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in Japan’s profound cultural and natural wonders.

Tatsueji (立江寺) is temple 19 of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, located in Komatsushima, Tokushima Prefecture. Nestled among lush forests and rolling hills, this temple exudes serenity and spiritual significance. Dedicated to Enmei Jizō Bosatsu (延命地蔵菩薩), a deity believed to grant longevity and protection, it offers a tranquil escape into Japan's rich cultural heritage. Pilgrims dressed in traditional attire further enrich the sacred atmosphere, making it a truly timeless experience.

Geography and Access:

Tatsueji is situated on the eastern side of Shikoku Island, an area known for its natural beauty and deeply spiritual roots. The temple is surrounded by cedar trees and scenic countryside, embodying the tranquility of the Shikoku Pilgrimage.

From Tokyo:

Fly from Haneda or Narita Airport to Tokushima Awaodori Airport (approx. 1.5 hours).

From the airport, take a bus or taxi to Komatsushima (about 40 minutes). Tatsueji is a short taxi ride from the city center.

From Osaka:

Take a direct flight from Kansai International Airport to Tokushima Awaodori Airport (about 45 minutes).

Alternatively, travel via train or bus to Tokushima City (approx. 2.5 hours). From there, take a bus or taxi to Komatsushima, and then to the temple.

Exploring this temple provides not only spiritual fulfillment but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in Japan’s profound cultural and natural wonders.

Japan Tour Guide

The Humidity is Real – Pack Summer-Friendly Clothes

When I was packing for Japan, I only considered the temperature. Big mistake! The humidity here makes the air feel much hotter and stickier than what the temperature suggests. Even if you check the forecast and think, "Oh, it's only 80°F," the humidity can turn that into a whole different beast. My advice: prioritize lightweight, breathable clothing, even if you see the locals covering up.

Interestingly, many locals do wear long sleeves despite the heat, but this can be misleading for visitors. The reasons range from being used to the climate to adhering to work dress codes or protecting their skin from the sun. I even saw a woman on a bike dressed in a long maxi dress, with arm-length gloves, a large sun hat, and sunglasses—she reminded me of Marceline from Adventure Time! But as a visitor, trying to copy what the locals wear isn’t always the best idea. Instead, make sure to check both the temperature and humidity before heading out.

Humidity really amplifies the heat. For instance, if it’s 100°F and the humidity is 55%, it can feel like a scorching 124°F! However, at 70°F with the same humidity, it still feels like 70°F. This means humidity mainly impacts higher temperatures, making the heat index rise significantly.

Luckily, Japan has your back with portable fans sold everywhere. You’ll see people using them on crowded trains, especially when it’s packed and stuffy! So, don’t hesitate to grab one to help cool down.