Kakuan-ji

Kakuan-ji is a Buddhist temple situated where the Yamato and Saho rivers meet, displaying traditional Japanese architecture with surrounding gardens. The complex comprises multiple buildings with wooden structures and houses religious artworks from several centuries.

The temple was founded in 621 and underwent several transformations, particularly during the Kamakura period when Buddhist monks Eison and Ninsho revitalized it. This period significantly shaped the development and growth of the site.

The temple houses a wood-core dry lacquer statue of Akasagarbha Bodhisattva, crafted between the Nara and Heian periods.

The temple is located at 36 Nukatabeteramachi in Yamatokoriyama and welcomes visitors during regular hours. Check the official website beforehand to confirm current visiting information.

The temple exchanged its five-story pagoda with Shitenno-ji Temple and received land compensation from the powerful lord Hideyoshi Toyotomi. This unusual arrangement is a rare example of cooperation between major religious institutions during the Sengoku period.

Location: Yamatokōriyama

GPS coordinates: 34.60081,135.77217

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:03