Okubuji Temple, the 88th sacred spot along the Shikoku Henro pilgrimage, is located between Mt. Yahazu, with an altitude of 782 meters, and Mt. Nyotai, near the border of Tokushima Prefecture. It is also called the "88th Temple of Wish Fulfilment", as it is the final destination on the pilgrimage.
According to writings documenting its origins and history, the temple got its start in 717, when Gyoki visited this land, heard a revelation from the heavens, and built a small hermitage there. Kobo Daishi (Kukai) visited in 815 (Konin 6), and underwent religious training in a cave midway up Mount Nyotai. He erected a building in a hollow in the valley, within which he enshrined a carving of the Healing Buddha, as well as a staff he received from Master Keika of Tang China. It is said that Okuboji Temple (Big Hollow Temple) was named after this hollow.
During the Edo period (1603-1868), there were some temples along the Shikoku Henro pilgrimage where women were not allowed to worship. However, because female worshippers were permitted at Okuboji, the temple earned the name "Women's Koya", a reference to Mt. Koya, the headquarters of the Shingon sect.
Next to the cave is a spring where pristine water bubbles forth.
As this is the last sacred spot along the pilgrimage, many people leave their pilgrim's staffs here once they have completed their journey. Next to the current Daishido Hall, there is a building where these walking sticks are kept.