Enmei-ji

Enmei-ji is a Buddhist temple in Kawachinagano featuring stone structures and religious buildings arranged among maple trees, with a main hall containing Buddhist artifacts and statues. The grounds include several smaller structures and shrines distributed across a quiet space that creates a sense of retreat from surrounding roads.

The temple was founded between 810 and 824 by priest Kukai, who created a stone Jizo statue that remains the central sacred object of the site. This founding period established the spiritual foundation that continues to define the place today.

The temple serves as a station on two major pilgrimage routes that connect Buddhist practitioners across the region through shared spiritual traditions. People visit to participate in these established networks and continue their devotional journeys.

The temple is somewhat removed from main roads and is best reached by public transportation, requiring a short walk from the nearest transit point. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and allow time to explore the grounds at a leisurely pace, especially if they want to see the different areas within the site.

Within the grounds stands a maple tree over 1,000 years old that has been designated as a Natural Monument by Osaka Prefecture and displays striking red foliage in autumn. This ancient tree serves as a living witness to the long history of the site.

Location: Kawachinagano

Part of: 河内飛鳥古寺霊場, 河泉二十四地蔵霊場

GPS coordinates: 34.42650,135.59403

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:46