Horikoshishakukannon, Buddhist temple in Katsuragi, Japan
Horikoshishakukannon is a Buddhist temple in Katsuragi situated at 605 meters elevation in a mountainous area. The complex features a main hall and a fire hall dedicated to Fudo Myoo positioned behind it.
The temple was founded in 671 during Emperor Tenji's reign in the early period of Japanese Buddhism. It was destroyed during the Siege of Kishu from 1573 to 1593 but was later reconstructed during the Keicho period.
The temple serves as a place where followers of the Katsuragi Shugendo tradition come to practice and seek spiritual development. The Eleven-Headed Kannon Bodhisattva, venerated here as the main deity, remains central to the spiritual life of this sacred site.
The temple can be reached on foot in about one hour from the Hori Hatake train stop. Parking is available at the site, though spaces are limited, so taking public transport is a convenient option.
A Southern Camellia tree grows near the main hall and was designated as a prefectural natural monument in 1959 for its exceptional age and size. This ancient tree stands as a quiet witness to the temple's long history.
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