Nishiarai Daishi

The temple complex spans 500,000 square meters with numerous halls, buildings, and educational facilities including the Buddhist main hall and ancestral hall.

Founded in 826 by Buddhist monk Kūkai, Nishiarai Daishi Temple represents a significant spiritual center that evolved through centuries of Japanese Buddhist tradition.

The temple belongs to three important pilgrimage networks: the Kanto Three Major Temples, the 88 Kanto Pilgrimage Sites, and the Kanto 36 Fudo Pilgrimage.

Located near public transportation stations in the Nishiarai district, the temple provides multilingual signs and information for international visitors exploring its grounds.

The temple maintains a dual leadership system where its chief priest alternates every two years with Eiheiji Temple, creating a balanced administration of Soto Zen Buddhism.

Location: Nishiarai

Inception: 826

Founders: Kūkai

Part of: 関東三大師, 88 pilgrimage sites of Kantō, Kantō 36 Fudō Pilgrimage

Address: 東京都足立区西新井1-15-1 123-0841

Website: https://nishiaraidaishi.jp/en

GPS coordinates: 35.78014,139.78000

Latest update: May 26, 2025 21:52