Kimiidera Temple

Map

History & Origins

In 770 (the 1st year of Hoki), the Tang monk Ikko is said to have perceived a golden Thousand-armed Kannon on Mt. Nagusa, and carved an image of the Eleven-faced Kannon himself to found the temple. In the late Heian period it became a temple for prayers by order of Retired Emperor Go-Shirakawa, and in the Kamakura period it was a large temple said to have had over 500 monks. In 1951 it became independent from the Yamashina school of Shingon and became the head temple of the Kyuse Kannon sect.

Highlights

Climbing the 231 steep stone steps (the Kechien-zaka) leads to grounds with beautiful views of Wakanoura Bay. The cherry trees in the grounds were selected among Japan's 100 Best Cherry Blossom Spots and include the Somei-yoshino standard tree for the Wakayama Local Meteorological Observatory. A newly built cable car can also be used to ascend the mountain.

Visitor Guide

About a 10-minute walk from Kimiidera Station on the JR Kisei Main Line. The sutra-copy and seal reception is open from 8:00 to 17:00, and the cable car and Buddha hall from 8:30 to 16:30. Please check the official website for admission fees. Allow about 60 to 90 minutes.

Best Season

The cherry blossom season from late March to early April is the busiest, and it draws many people as Wakayama's top cherry blossom viewing spot. Fresh greenery in May and autumn leaves in November are also beautiful seasons.

Blessings

Annual Events

• January

  Hatsu-Kannon Daihannyakyo Tendoku Hoe (January 18)

  A service of reading the Daihannya Sutra, held on the first Kannon temple fair day of the new year. Prayers are offered for safety through the year.

• August

  Kimiidera Sennichi Mairi (August 9)

  A temple fair day on which a visit is said to bring the merit of a thousand days. Night visits are made with dragon lanterns offered.

Travel Plan

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