Jigen-ji

Jigen-ji is a Buddhist temple positioned on an elevated slope of the Ikoma Mountains with a view across the Osaka Plain from its vantage point. The setting combines mountain terrain with clear sightlines to the lowlands below.

The temple's founding dates to between 749 and 757 when an Indian Brahmin priest recognized the location as resembling Sarnath, a major Buddhist site. The monk Gyoki played a role in establishing this sacred place.

The May ceremony brings together visitors for sutra chanting in a way that connects people from different backgrounds, continuing a tradition that has been followed since the Edo period.

The temple can be reached by heading east from Nozaki Station, which is served by local rail lines. The elevated location means visitors should prepare for some walking uphill.

The temple holds a nine-tiered stone pagoda built in 1294 that stands as one of the oldest structures of its kind in the northern Kawachi area. This tower represents an uncommon example of stone craftsmanship from the medieval period.

Location: Daitō

Inception: 8 century

Founders: Gyōki

Website: https://nozakikannon.or.jp

GPS coordinates: 34.71917,135.64466

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:44