Carefully selected! If you are looking for a power spot in Kochi Prefecture, please go here! 6 Recommended Selection

Kochi Prefecture is brimming with historical and natural attractions like Sakamoto Ryoma and the Shimanto River. But did you know it's also home to numerous power spots?

In this article, we've carefully selected six of the most recommended power spots. Use this as a guide to find the perfect spiritual retreat for you!

1. Tojindaba: Gain energy from ancient stones

Located in Matsuo, Tosashimizu City, "Tōjin Daba" is an archaeological site where numerous stone tools and earthenware from the Jōmon to Yayoi periods have been excavated. While it is now used as a park, the stones arranged in a circle around the lawn are said to be the world's largest stone circle and are known as a power spot. "Tōjin" means "foreigner" and "daba" means "a flat area on a mountaintop," suggesting a mysterious place created by foreigners long ago.

Furthermore, there are numerous "Tōjin Stones," massive stones 6 to 7 meters tall, arranged in clusters nearby, and they are also believed to have been artificially created. It is said that there are over 250 locations of Tōjin Stones, and even today, not all of them have been fully explained.

Since ancient times, it has been believed that stones have mysterious powers, and it is said that each stone emits its own "sound" and "energy." These enigmatic ancient stones speak to the hearts of visitors and bring them energy.

2. Tosa Shrine: The legendary stone where the shrine was said to be established

Tosa Shrine, said to have been built around the 5th century, has a long history. The precincts, lined with numerous important cultural properties such as the main hall, worship hall, and gate tower, are filled with lush cypress and cedar trees, creating a solemn atmosphere.

Two deities are enshrined in this shrine: Aji Sukitakahikoneno kami and Hitokotonushinokami. Aji Sukitakahikoneno kami is a god of agriculture and real estate and is widely worshiped locally. Hitokotonushinokami is said to be a god who grants any single wish, and is said to help create harmony and improve relationships. It is a good place to visit when you are troubled by communication.

And among the places in Tosa Shrine, the pebble stone said to have been thrown by the gods to decide the location of the shrine is known to be particularly powerful. Located a little further back from the main hall, it is a giant stone measuring 3.3 meters wide. Be sure to go up close and feel its weighty presence. It is a spot where you can receive quiet power, so please visit with a calm mind.

3. Cape Muroto: Where the energy of nature converges

"Capes" are often said to be places where the power of nature resides, and Cape Muroto is particularly known as a place where strong energy converges.

A cave called "Gokuro-do" is said to have particularly strong energy within the cape area. This cave was formed by the erosion of the sea waves and is also famous as the place where Kobo Daishi (Kukai) trained and attained enlightenment. It is said that he named it after the view of the "sky" and "sea" from inside the cave. Gokuro-do is a very precious space where the scenery that Kukai must have seen in the Heian period remains unchanged to this day.

Inside the cave, there is a large space with a small shrine called "Goso Jinja." The sound of the waves of Cape Muroto that can be heard when you listen carefully there is also a mysterious and attractive sound, one of the "100 Soundscapes of Japan."

Unfortunately, due to falling rocks, the cave is currently closed to the public. However, simply gazing at the magnificent view of Cape Muroto is enough to fill your heart with power and is filled with the strength and sacredness of nature. Please come and visit and feel the scenery where Kukai attained enlightenment and listen to the sound of the waves of Cape Muroto. It will fill your mind and body with energy.

4. Gassan Shrine: A crescent-shaped stone with powerful energy

"Tsukiyama Jinja" is located in Ooki-cho, Hata District, Kochi Prefecture. It is a shrine with a crescent-shaped stone as its main object of worship, from which the name is derived. It is also one of the unofficial pilgrimage sites of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, and although it is a small shrine, it is visited by many worshippers.

The power spot is the sacred stone said to be the main object of worship. It is a large stone about 1.5 meters wide, and although detailed records do not remain, it is said to have existed in the same place for over a thousand years. It emits strong power and has the power to purify those who come. There is also a legend that Kobo Daishi (Kukai) performed a moon-watching修行 at the foot of this stone.

Tsukiyama Jinja is located right by the sea and is also the guardian deity of the local sea. Nearby, the sea is also named after the moon, such as "Gotsuki-nada" and "Tsukiyama-misaki," suggesting that the moon stone has been a protective presence in this land since ancient times. When you visit the shrine, please be sure to look at this crescent-shaped main object of worship and receive its power!

5. The Great Cedar Tree: Where Misora Hibari sought blessings

Located within the precincts of Yasaka Shrine in Ōtoyo-chō, Nagaoka District, the “Great Cedar Tree” is a giant cedar tree that, according to mythology, was planted by Susanoo no Mikoto. Over 3,000 years old, this ancient tree is designated as a Special Natural Monument and is also called the "Couple Cedar" because two large trees, the South Great Cedar and the North Great Cedar, stand side by side.

Despite its age, when viewed up close, the tree is incredibly imposing and exudes both power and mystery. As you look up at its majestic form and walk around it, you'll feel refreshed and invigorated by its vitality.

It's well known that Misora Hibari, the renowned singer, prayed at this great cedar tree for success in her career. This spot is so revered that many celebrities, politicians, and businesspeople make secret visits to pray here. It truly lives up to its reputation as a powerful spiritual place.

6. Ryugado Cave: Filled with healing energy to revitalize you

Located in Kami City, Kochi Prefecture, Ryugado Cave is one of Japan's three major limestone caves. It is also a historic site where numerous Yayoi period earthenware artifacts have been discovered. Traces of human habitation have also been found, making this a valuable limestone cave designated as both a Natural Monument and a Historic Site.

Powerspots with water are said to possess feminine energy and are believed to grant the power to find love. Inside the cave, there are several waterfalls, so visualize your desires as you pray for blessings.

Additionally, at the entrance, there is a "Dragon King Shrine" dedicated to a snake that is said to have guided people through the cave. It is recommended to pray for good fortune here.

Overall, the limestone cave has a gentle healing power. You can walk about 1 kilometer inside, so take your time and relax as you stroll through this space created over eons. You'll feel refreshed and rejuvenated.

◎Summary

Power spots vary widely, from places with strong energy to those that promote tranquility. Moreover, how people feel and perceive these places differs from person to person. If you have the opportunity, be sure to enjoy a power spot tour of Kochi Prefecture.