A Convenient Route to Tairyuji Temple
The Tairyuji Ropeway opened on July 21, 1992, following an investment of approximately 2.2 billion yen. It provides direct access to Tairyuji Temple, the 21st temple on the Shikoku 88-Temple Pilgrimage, a historic Buddhist pilgrimage route associated with Kobo Daishi, also known as Kukai.
The ride takes approximately 11 minutes, carrying passengers to the mountain station at an elevation of around 476 meters, near the stone steps leading to the temple’s main hall. Before the ropeway opened, pilgrims had to tackle a steep and difficult mountain trail known as a henro-korogashi, or a route so challenging that it could cause pilgrims to stumble. Today, the ropeway makes this important spiritual destination much easier to reach.
Panoramic Views from the Ropeway
During the ride, passengers can enjoy expansive views of the Naka River valley, the Tsurugi mountain range, the Kii Channel, Tachibana Bay, and the Naruto area. When visibility is good, Awaji Island and the distant coastline of Wakayama can also be seen.
Look carefully during the journey for a brief glimpse of the roof of the three-story pagoda at Kakurinji Temple, the 20th temple on the Shikoku pilgrimage. Mount Tairyuji is also associated with stories of Japanese wolves that once inhabited the area, and five wolf statues can be found on the mountain.
Art lovers may also spot Yamasakimori, a bronze sculpture by sculptor Masayuki Nagare, installed near the summit. These cultural details add another dimension to the ropeway experience beyond its impressive scenery.
Kukai’s Spiritual Legacy
During the latter part of the journey, passengers may see a statue of Kobo Daishi Kukai seated on the rocky slopes of Tairyu-ga-take, also known as Shashin-ga-take. According to tradition, Kukai practiced Buddhist asceticism here when he was 24 years old. His spiritual experiences at the mountain are described in the preface to his work Sango Shiiki, written in 797.
Another noteworthy landmark is the Tōmyō Sugi, or Sacred Lantern Cedar, associated with Kukai. Together, these sites evoke the mountain’s long history as a place of religious training and contemplation.
The Ropeway Stations
Washinosato Station
Washinosato Station is the starting point of the ropeway and is located beside Michi-no-Eki Washinosato, a roadside station in Naka Town. From here, the gondola crosses the Naka River before ascending into the mountains.
Tairyuji Station
Located near the summit, Tairyuji Station provides convenient access to Tairyuji Temple. The surrounding mountain scenery is particularly impressive, and clouds drifting through the valleys can sometimes create a beautiful sea-of-clouds effect.
Ropeway Specifications
Route length: 2,775 meters, the longest ropeway in western Japan
Gondola: Swiss-made, enclosed lightweight metal cabin with a capacity of 101 passengers
Operating system: Four-cable, alternating-car system
Elevation difference: 422 meters, with a maximum vertical difference of 508 meters
Operating speed: 5 meters per second, or approximately 18 kilometers per hour
Operating Hours and Fares
Operating hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:40 p.m.
Departures: At 20-minute intervals, at :00, :20, and :40 past each hour
Operating days: Open year-round, although services may be suspended in bad weather
Ropeway Fares
Adults: ¥1,300 one way / ¥2,600 round trip
Junior and senior high school students: ¥980 one way / ¥1,950 round trip
Elementary school students: ¥650 one way / ¥1,300 round trip
Group discounts: Available for groups of 15 or more
Operating hours and fares may change, so checking the latest information before visiting is recommended.
How to Get There
By Bus
From Tokushima Station, take a Tokushima Bus service on the Tachibana Line or a Tokushima Bus Nanbu service on the Nyudani Line. Get off at Washikihigashi in Naka Town, then walk approximately 10 minutes to Washinosato Station. The journey from Tokushima takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
By Train and Bus
The nearest JR Mugi Line stations are Kuwano Station and Anan Station. From either station, take a Tokushima Bus Nanbu service on the Nyudani Line to Washikihigashi, then walk approximately 10 minutes to the ropeway’s lower station.
By Car
The ropeway is approximately one hour by car from Tokushima Interchange. For navigation, search for “Tairyuji Ropeway Lower Station” or enter the telephone number 0884-62-3100.
Dining and Accommodation Nearby
A restaurant called Bodaiju is located on the ropeway grounds and serves meals from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. As it has irregular closing days, check its operating schedule before your visit.
Accommodation options in the surrounding area include Iyashitei Kokū, which reopened on June 15, 2024, as well as the orchard-owner’s guesthouse Ao and Minshuku Hotaru no Yado. These provide options for travelers who wish to explore the mountains and nearby attractions at a relaxed pace.
Explore the Surrounding Area
The area around the Tairyuji Ropeway offers more than mountain scenery. Visitors can combine their trip with a pilgrimage to Tairyuji Temple or Kakurinji Temple, a riverside visit to the Naka River, or a stop at Ebisu Shrine and Ushio Falls. Roadside stations such as Washinosato and Wajiki are also worth visiting for local specialties and souvenirs.
For travelers interested in archaeology, the Wak杉山 Cinnabar Mining Site preserves evidence of ancient mineral extraction in the region. The surrounding landscape offers opportunities to appreciate both the area’s natural environment and its long history of human activity.
A Memorable Journey Through Nature and History
The Tairyuji Ropeway combines spectacular views, convenient access, and a deep connection to Japanese Buddhist history. As the gondola rises above the Naka River and crosses the mountains toward Tairyuji Temple, visitors can appreciate the rugged landscape that once challenged pilgrims on foot. Whether you are following the Shikoku pilgrimage, exploring Tokushima’s natural scenery, or simply seeking an unforgettable mountain ride, this ropeway is a rewarding destination.