観菩提寺

Kanbodai-ji is a temple in Iga featuring a main hall and a multi-story gate that show traditional architectural design from the Muromachi period. The wooden structures display the craftsmanship and style typical of Buddhist religious buildings from that era.

The temple was founded in 751 by Jicchu, a priest from Todaiji Temple in Nara, making it one of the earliest Buddhist institutions in the Iga region. Its establishment reflects the spread of Buddhism into this part of the country during that period.

The temple holds the annual Shushoe ceremony every February 11th and 12th, where representatives carry large rice cakes and ritual offerings in procession.

The temple offers free access to visitors throughout the year and provides parking on the grounds. The site is easy to reach and set up for people to walk around comfortably.

The principal statue is an eleven-faced Kannon figure with six arms that is displayed to the public only once every 33 years. This rare viewing cycle makes it a special attraction for those who happen to visit during an opening year.