An Autumn Adventure for Parents and Kids! Visit Shiromine-ji, a Must-See Foliage Spot in Sakaide City

Spots

Shiromine-ji Temple is the 81st site on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, located on Mt. Shiromine in the Goshikidai range. In autumn, the temple grounds are painted in a beautiful blend of three colors—red, gold, and green.

The views from the main hall and the bell tower are especially breathtaking, often making both adults and children stop in their tracks. Nine key structures, including the Main Hall and the Tonshoji Hall, are designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan.

The combination of historic architecture and vibrant fall foliage feels like a scene straight out of a storybook. The best viewing is typically from mid-November to early December.

INDEX

Exciting and full of surprises! An Animal-Spotting Game at the Temple
Enjoy Fall Foliage and Great Food! Food Truck Fair Coming to Town
Create Autumn Memories and Strengthen Family Bonds — A Special Day at Shiromine-ji Temple

Exciting and full of surprises! An Animal-Spotting Game at the Temple

At Shiromine-ji Temple, you’ll find animals hidden all around—almost like a real-life treasure hunt. Go searching with your kids, and even adults might get so absorbed they feel like children again. Now, let the family adventure begin!

Can you spot the maneki-neko (beckoning cat) and a karasu-tengu perched on top of stone lanterns? You might even hear happy shouts of “I found it!” echoing through the grounds.
There are also stone monuments featuring the 12 zodiac animals—hidden throughout the temple. If you can find them all, that’s impressive! Hunting for them with “What animal is next?” excitement is half the fun.
In front of the main hall, the omikuji stand even has adorable maneki-neko fortune slips. Reading the result together as a family can become a lovely memory.

Every time you spot an animal, you might find yourself high-fiving your kids—
“Nice find!” “Dad, there’s one over there too!”—and the conversation will naturally come alive.

If you take photos as you go, you can capture those fun moments on the spot and turn them into instant memories. While you’re searching, it’s also a great chance to share a few interesting stories with your children—about the temple’s history or the meanings behind the animal figures. It’s a playful learning experience, too: fun and educational.

And this animal-spotting game? You may discover that adults get even more into it than the kids. Step back into your childlike curiosity, and enjoy a time filled with smiles—together as a family.

Enjoy Fall Foliage and Great Food! Food Truck Fair Coming to Town

Savor the flavors of autumn! During the fall foliage season, food trucks will also roll in—bringing aromatic, delicious bites to enjoy. It’s a lively scene, almost like an autumn harvest festival.

A special treat: eat something tasty together while admiring the autumn leaves.
The aroma of freshly cooked food drifts through the red and golden trees—and the first bite is so good it’s hard not to smile.
Plenty of kid-approved favorites!
Fluffy takoyaki, crispy fries, and everyone’s beloved crêpes—menus that make kids’ eyes light up. Even choosing “Which one should we get?” becomes part of the fun.
Hearty, authentic options for adults, too.
Seasonal creations made with fresh local ingredients, warming autumn soups, and other satisfying dishes that feel just a little indulgent.
Perfect for snack time or a light lunch.
A quick bite on a bench between visits tastes extra special. Rest your feet, recharge, and you’re ready to go again.

Eating in a different atmosphere somehow makes even familiar foods taste better. And later, it’s the kind of moment families love to talk about—“That one thing from the food truck was so good!”

Food truck menus can change from day to day, so what you’ll find is part of the fun. You might even stumble upon an unexpected new favorite.

Whether it’s the perfect finale to your autumn-leaf outing or a quick energy boost along the way, be sure to enjoy the food truck treats. They’re sure to leave you with a wonderful memory—and a happy, satisfied heart (and stomach).

Create Autumn Memories and Strengthen Family Bonds — A Special Day at Shiromine-ji Temple

We’ve introduced Shiromine-ji Temple, one of Sakaide City’s best spots for autumn foliage. Its spacious grounds offer a place where even young children can run around safely and comfortably.

As you enjoy the fall colors, there are plenty of ways for the whole family to have fun—playing the animal-spotting game, savoring delicious treats, and simply taking in the season together.

Surrounded by historic buildings, why not slow down and spend a peaceful autumn day here? At Shiromine-ji, you’re sure to create wonderful family memories.

Photo credit: Shikoku Camera Club