Ep 5. Ryozenji Temple Shikoku, Japan

Beyond The Beaten Path takes us on a journey to a lesser-known world as the host explores the most serene locations on the planet. Season 1 episode 5, titled "Ryozenji Temple Shikoku, Japan," teaches viewers about one of the Shikoku Pilgrimage's fundamental locations. With rolling hills, misty mountains, and quiet countryside, Shikoku is a dreamy location for anyone seeking peace and tranquility.

The episode introduces us to the pilgrimage, which is a 1200 km-long journey devoted to Kobo Daishi, or Kukai, one of Japan's most distinguished religious figures. The Shikoku Pilgrimage winds through 88 temples on Japan's Shikoku Island, and Ryozenji temple marks the start of the trail. The pilgrimage sees around 50,000 people walking in a year, with most participants being Buddhist pilgrims from Japan. The goal is to visit all of the 88 temples within 45 days and clear the mind of materialistic thoughts through physical exertion.

Moving on to the core of the episode, we see the host exploring the beautiful Ryozenji Temple in Shikoku, Japan. A millenary facility inaugurated in 828 by Kobo Daishi himself, and named after the temple he founded in China. Ryozenji temple played a crucial role in the creation of the pilgrimage route.

Viewers will get the chance to immerse themselves in Japan's history through the stunning architecture of the temple. They will see the temple's wooden statue of Kobo Daishi, an elaborately crafted example of Buddhist architecture, and a significant area for travelers. It also houses several other intricate wooden statues and artwork. The expansive temple complex will leave you captivated.

The episode will also shed light on the spiritual nature of the Shikoku pilgrimage, which aims to develop a sense of enlightenment, improve the mind, and promote personal growth. Moving on, viewers will encounter locals performing the Temple's activities, including practices such as washing hands and mouths with water before entering the facility and reciting sutras.

Beyond The Beaten Path's host will guide us through the temple route while providing details on the significance of each temple as it relates to the Shikoku pilgrimage route. The journey has its difficulties; monks at some of the temples stoke the fires of pilgrimage devotion by putting obstacles in front of travelers. Despite the obstacles, viewers will get a sense of the peace and cultural benefits that people experience along the way.

Moving on, viewers will learn about the traditional meals served in guesthouses to pilgrims. The foods reflect the beliefs of Buddhism, such as the idea of coexisting with nature. Nepal, India, and China have a significant influence on the Shikoku pilgrimage's history and, as a result, the food served there.

The final moments of Beyond The Beaten Path Season 1 Episode 5 will see the host continue to explore the temple, with its enviable surrounding landscape. Japanese harmony with nature is evident in the temple's garden, and viewers will also get the chance to see a famous rock formation called 'Daishi Rock' that marks the original construction site of Ryozenji Temple.

Throughout the episode, the host will offer viewers a unique glimpse into an area of Japan that many people have yet to discover. The Shikoku Island and its temples have a unique charm and history that comes alive in this travel show. The episode is a perfect blend of cinematography, culture and entertainment that audiences worldwide will enjoy.