This is really such a gem of a place to visit, and highly recommended for hikers and nature walkers. The temple is very calm and quiet and is considered by Buddhists as the "source" of Kagawa Prefecture. The name "Kagawa" means "Fragrant River", and it is believed that from the roots of the tree of the courtyard in this temple the river flows forth. Getting to the temple itself is a little bit of a hike, so pace yourself and enjoy the lush nature around you. As you push yourself up the steps you will be surrounded by trees, moss, and possibly pilgrims going your way to make their respects. Within the temple is a shrine that holds thousands of images of Kannon (goddess of mercy). You can walk in but it is quite dark. In front of the thousand year old zelkova tree there is a large statue of an "ox-devil". The legend from this area is that this ox-devil was harassing the locals until a samurai by the name of Yamada Kuranda shot it with his bow and chopped off its head. The tradition surrounding this act of bravery is that the locals can call on the power of the subdued ox-devil to combat evil. What I enjoyed most of this location was the courtyard. It was so peaceful when I was there. While much of the pilgrimage has a more open-air feeling, this place felt secure and welcoming. It might have been the shape of the buildings, but I thought that it was a lovely "nest" of contemplation, and to just "be in the moment". Check it out!

I have been to all of the 88 Shikoku Pilgrimage temples, and Negoro-ji is one of the most beautiful. On the top of a mountain, it is set in a deep, dark forest. There is a staircase that drops down into a valley and then up toward the main hall. It is rather uneven, so not good for unstable feet or wheelchairs. However, the trees and temple are lovely; they are especially magical in the fall when the colors change. There is a fun, large statue of a demon in the parking lot which is good for more whimsical photos. Negoro-ji is most famous for being the spring of the "fragrant river" which gives Kagawa prefecture its name.