Chikurin-ji is the 31st temple on the Shikoku 88-Temple Pilgrimage (Shikoku Henro) and one of the most atmospheric in the prefecture. Founded in 724 — according to tradition by the monk Gyōki, who had a vision of the bodhisattva Manjushri on the hill — it sits on Godaisan, a forested ridge about 5km east of the city centre, next to the Kōchi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden.
The temple complex is compact but beautiful: a five-storey pagoda rises above moss-covered stone, the main hall is dark and incense-thick, and the surrounding forest muffles the city noise entirely. Even if you are not following the pilgrimage, it is a worthwhile stop. White-clad ohenro-san (pilgrims) pass through all year; the atmosphere is respectful and the setting genuinely peaceful.
Access: 20 minutes by bus from Kōchi Station (get off at Makino Botanical Garden stop), or a 5km taxi ride.