Kitaro makes a song for each temple, so Ku-Kai series will be 88 tracks.
The Shikoku Pilgrimage (四国八十八箇所 Shikoku Hachijūhakkasho) is a pilgrimage of eighty-eight temples on the island of Shikoku, Japan. “Ryōzenji (霊山寺)” is the first temple of the pilgrimage, and the very first track of Sacred Journey of Ku-Kai, Vol1, “MICHI” is a piece in the motif of Ryozenji Peacebell.
History of Ryozenji
Ryozenji was built in 729 by Shomu Emperor. Gyoki who was called “Bosatsu” initiated this temple.
In 815, Ku-Kai had stayed and trained for Buddhism at this temple for 21 days. During the training Duddha appeared and told him that he should make 88 places of hallowed grounds in order to help people, and Ryozenji would be the first temple. Ku-Kai followed the Buddha’s will, and created 88 halowed grounds.
About Ryozenji
As the first temple of the pilgrimage, many pilgrims come and prepare for their long journeys here. At this temple, pilgrims can get sedge hats, pilgrim’s staff, white coats, and many other stuffs for the pilgrimage. The other important thing about pilgrims do at this temple is that Pilgrims have to swear to Ku-Kai to obey his ten commandments, such as a promise not to tell a lie. And then, pilgrims begin their journeys as a follower of Ku-Kai, and people believe that Ku-Kai is always next to them along the way, this belief is called “dogyo ninin.”

Click here to listen “MICHI” which is 1st song of Sacred Journey of Ku-Kai vol. 1
Do you want to listen all tracks from Vol.1?
Then click here to listen all tracks.