西国三十三所めぐり

First temple. The principal image is Nyoirin Kannon Bosatsu. Adjacent to Nachi Falls, it is the first temple visited by Emperor Kazan Ho'o on his pilgrimage to the 33 temples of Saigoku, as legend has it. The main hall, rebuilt in 1590 in the Momoyama style, is a nationally designated Important Cultural Property. The Nachi Falls viewed over the adjacent three-story pagoda is a famous scenic spot. Accessible by bus or taxi from JR Kii-Katsuura Station; parking available. Ascend the long stone steps of the approach, such as Daimonzaka. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

Second temple. The principal image is Jūichimen Kannon Bosatsu. Legend has it that it was founded in 770 by Abbot Iko, and the temple's name comes from the 'Mitsui Water' (one of the 100 Famous Waters) within the grounds. The main gate, treasure pagoda, and bell tower are Important Cultural Properties. It is a famous cherry blossom viewing spot (one of the 100 Famous Cherry Blossom Spots) with a panoramic view of Wakaura Bay. About a 10-minute walk from JR Kimiidera Station; parking available. Ascend the steep 231 stone steps (Ketsuen-zaka) to the main hall. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

Third temple. The principal image is Senju Sen'gen Kannon Bosatsu. Legend has it that it was founded in 770 by Otomono Kofuko, and was rebuilt in the Edo period after being burned down during the wars of the Tensho era. The main hall, main gate, middle gate, and Senju-do are Important Cultural Properties. The Momoyama period garden of Kōhō-ji, with its large rocks in front of the main hall, is a nationally designated Place of Scenic Beauty, and the illustrated scrolls of its origins are National Treasures. About a 15-minute walk from JR Kōhō Station through the temple town; parking available. The approach is on flat ground with no steep mountain paths. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

Fourth temple. The principal image is Jūichimen Senju Sen'gen Kannon Bosatsu. This ancient temple, built on the middle slope of Mt. Makio (approx. 475m above sea level), is also said to be where Kūkai had his head shaved. The diverse collection of Buddhist statues, including Bato Kannon, is a highlight. Accessible by bus from Semboku Rapid Railway Izumi-Chuo Station; parking available. From the temple gate to the main hall is about 1km, with steep stone steps and mountain paths, making it one of the most difficult to access in the West. *The mountain path and stone steps are long, so pay attention to your stamina and time. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

Fifth temple. The principal image is Jūichimen Senju Sen'gen Kannon Bosatsu. Legend has it that it was the clan temple of the immigrant clan, the Kuji clan. The National Treasure dry lacquer seated statue of Senju Kannon (Tenpyo Buddhist sculpture) with over a thousand hands is open for viewing on the 18th of every month. The vermilion-painted West Gate is an Important Cultural Property. It is also known as a famous spot for wisteria. It is a flat urban temple about a 3-5 minute walk from Kintetsu Fujiidera Station, with no mountain paths or long stone steps. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

22nd temple. The principal image is Senju Kannon Bosatsu, and legend has it that it was founded in the early Heian period by Dainagon Fujiwara no Yamakage. It is known for the legend of the 'Turtle's Reward,' where Yamakage was saved from underwater by a large turtle his father had released, and the principal image is affectionately called 'Kannon riding a turtle.' It is also a temple where the Yamakage-ryū Hōchō-shiki (culinary ceremony) honoring the ancestor of cooking is performed annually. About a 5-minute walk from JR Sōjiji Station and Hankyu Sōjiji Station. It is located on flat ground in an urban area, with no long stone steps or mountain paths. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

23rd temple. The principal image is Jūichimen Senju Kannon Bosatsu. This ancient temple, founded in the Nara period, was granted the name 'Katsuō-ji' (meaning 'King of Victory Temple') by Emperor Seiwa for its efficacy in praying for his recovery from illness, and the name was later changed to 'Katsuō-ji' out of reverence. It is known as the temple of 'Kachi Daruma' (winning Daruma dolls) for those praying for 'winning luck' in exams, competitions, business, and more. Accessible by Hankyu Bus from Osaka Metro Midosuji Line Minoo-Kayano Station, alighting at Katsuō-ji. Parking available. Stone steps and slopes are scattered throughout the large mountain grounds. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

Sixth temple. The principal image is Jūichimen Senju Kannon Bosatsu. Legend has it that it was founded in 703 by Abbot Benki, and it is known for the Joruri play 'Tsubosaka Reigenki' as a temple with miraculous efficacy for eye diseases. The octagonal main hall and its oratory, and the three-story pagoda are Important Cultural Properties. The large stone statues brought from India are also a highlight. A mountain temple about a 10-minute bus or taxi ride from Kintetsu Tsubosaka-yama Station; parking available. There are stone steps within the temple grounds. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

Seventh temple. The principal image is Nyoirin Kannon Bosatsu. Legend has it that it was founded in 663 by Abbot Gien, and it is considered Japan's first temple for warding off misfortune. The principal image is the largest Buddhist statue in Japan made of clay, and the vermilion-colored Niomon gate is an Important Cultural Property. It is also popular for its rhododendrons. About a 10-minute walk from Kintetsu Kashiharajingu-mae Station, alighting at 'Okadera-mae' bus stop; parking available. Located on the middle slope of Asuka Village, you ascend the slope of the approach. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

Eighth temple. The principal image is Jūichimen Kannon Bosatsu. It is the head temple of the Shingon Buzan sect. The main hall, rebuilt by Tokugawa Iemitsu, is a National Treasure, and the standing statue of the principal image, over 10 meters tall, is an Important Cultural Property. The 399-step covered corridor leading from the Niomon gate to the main hall (an Important Cultural Property) is a highlight, and it is famous as the 'Temple of Flowers' where peonies bloom. About a 15-minute walk from Kintetsu Hase-dera Station; parking available. You ascend slopes and stone steps from the temple gate to the main hall. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

Ninth temple. The principal image is Fukūkensaku Kannon Bosatsu. This octagonal hall, with ties to the Fujiwara clan, was built in 813 by Fujiwara no Fuyutsugu. The current structure, rebuilt in the Kansei era, is an Important Cultural Property and the largest octagonal hall in Japan. The principal image is only open for viewing on October 17th each year. It is part of the World Heritage site 'Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.' About a 5-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station; parking available (paid). The temple grounds are flat and easy to visit. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

Tenth temple. The principal image is Senju Kannon Bosatsu. Legend has it that it was founded in 770 by imperial decree of Emperor Kōnin, and it is a special head temple of the Shōzan-ji sect. The main hall, rebuilt in 1805, and the Muromachi period three-story pagoda are highlights. It is known as the 'Temple of Flowers' for its approximately 20,000 azaleas, 10,000 hydrangeas, lotus flowers, and autumn foliage. About a 15-minute walk from Keihan Mimuroto Station; parking available (approx. 300 spaces). There are stone steps within the temple grounds. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

Eleventh temple. The principal image is Juntei Kannon Bosatsu. Its origin dates back to 876 when Shōbō (Rigen Daishi) enshrined Juntei Kannon on Kami-Daigo. The Juntei-dō was destroyed by lightning in 2008, and currently, worship and Goshuin are accepted at the Kannon-dō in Shimo-Daigo. The five-story pagoda in Shimo-Daigo is the oldest wooden structure in Kyoto Prefecture and a National Treasure. It is a World Heritage site. About a 20-minute walk from Subway Daigo Station; parking available. To reach Kami-Daigo, it is about a 1-hour climb from Nyōnin-dō. *The mountain path and stone steps are long, so pay attention to your stamina and time. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

15th temple. The principal image is Jūichimen Kannon Bosatsu, and legend has it that it was founded by Kūkai in 825 by imperial decree of Emperor Saga. It is a sub-temple of Sennyū-ji Temple and is widely worshipped as the 'Kannon of the Head' for curing headaches and granting wisdom, and as a temple for warding off dementia. Within the grounds stand a statue of Kogo Daishi and a multi-story pagoda-shaped Iseido (Hall of the Medical Sage). About a 15-minute walk from JR Tōfuku-ji Station, or alight at Sennyū-ji-michi bus stop. The approach across Torii-bashi Bridge is uphill, and there is parking for visitors. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

16th temple. The principal image is Jūichimen Senju Sen'gen Kannon Bosatsu, and legend has it that it was founded in 778 by Abbot Enchin, and Sakanoue no Tamuramaro donated the main hall. The main hall, famous for its 'Kiyomizu Stage' that juts out over the cliff, is a National Treasure, and the current structure was rebuilt during the Kan'ei era (1631-1633). Many of its halls and pagodas are Important Cultural Properties. Accessible on foot from Keihan Kiyomizu-Gojō Station, etc. The approach roads, Kiyomizu-zaka and Sannenzaka, are continuous slopes and stone steps. Parking is not available. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

17th temple. The principal image is Jūichimen Kannon Bosatsu, and legend has it that it was founded in 951 by Abbot Kūya. This ancient temple is said to have been founded by Abbot Kūya, who enshrined a statue of Kannon that he himself carved onto a cart and paraded through the city, praying for the eradication of epidemics. The principal image is a National Treasure and is only open for viewing once every twelve years. It is also known for the statue of Abbot Kūya standing, from whose mouth six Amida Buddhas emerge (Important Cultural Property). About an 8-minute walk from Keihan Kiyomizu-Gojō Station. It is a flat urban temple with parking available. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

18th temple. The principal image is Nyoirin Kannon Bosatsu, and legend has it that it was founded by Prince Shōtoku. It is affectionately known as 'Rokkakudō' because its main hall is hexagonal, and it is known as the birthplace of Ikebana (flower arrangement) which developed from the lodging house 'Ikenobō.' The 'Heso-ishi' (Navel Stone), said to mark the center of Kyoto, and the matchmaking willow tree are also highlights. About a 3-minute walk from Subway Karasuma-Oike Station. It is located on flat ground in the city center, with no parking within the temple grounds. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

19th temple. The principal image is Senju Kannon Bosatsu, and legend has it that it was founded in 1004 by Abbot Gyōen. The origin of the name 'Kakudō' comes from Gyōen, who wore deer hide and was called 'Kawa-hijiri' (Leather Saint). It is known as the only nunnery among the Saigoku pilgrimage temples, and the current main hall was built in 1815. Located just south of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, facing Teramachi Street, it is about a 10-minute walk from Keihan Jingū-Marutamachi Station. It is a flat urban temple, with paid parking nearby. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

20th temple. The principal image is Senju Kannon Bosatsu, and legend has it that it was founded in 1029 by Gen'san. After being burned down in the Ōnin War, it was rebuilt through the efforts of Keishōin, the mother of Tokugawa Tsunayoshi. Highlights include the 'Yūryū no Matsu' (Wandering Dragon Pine), a natural monument about 600 years old and 37 meters long, and the Important Cultural Property three-story pagoda. You can overlook Kyoto city from the mountaintop. Accessible by bus from Hankyu Higashi-Mukai Station, etc. As it is a mountain temple, the temple buildings are scattered on a slope, with many stone steps and slopes. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

21st temple. The principal image of the pilgrimage is Shō Kannon Bosatsu, and legend has it that it was founded in 705 by Otomaro. This temple is famous for the story of the 'Substitute Kannon' told in the 'Konjaku Monogatari Shū' (Collection of Tales of the Past and Present). The main hall enshrines a 'Nadebutsu' (patting Buddha) statue of Shaka Nyorai, where visitors pat the same part of the statue as their own ailment to pray for recovery. The Edo period pond garden is a designated cultural property of Kyoto Prefecture. Immediately after alighting at 'Anōji-mae' bus stop from JR Kameoka Station. It is located on flat ground in the countryside, with no long stone steps or mountain paths. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

28th temple. The principal image is Shō Kannon Bosatsu. Located on the middle slope of Mt. Tsutsuriga, overlooking Amanohashidate, one of Japan's three most scenic views, it is known as the 'temple where wishes come true' and for the legend of the substitute Kannon. It is the northernmost temple of the Saigoku pilgrimage. The route involves transferring from Amanohashidate Station on the Kitakinki Tango Railway to a sightseeing boat, cable car (lift), and then a mountain bus, or using a taxi. The approach road is steep, so drive carefully. Parking available. Snowfall occurs in winter. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

29th temple. The principal image is Bato Kannon Bosatsu, and it is the only temple among the 33 Saigoku temples to enshrine Bato Kannon as its principal image. It stands on the middle slope of Mt. Aoba and is worshipped as a guardian deity of agriculture, livestock, and transportation. It is also known for the rare 'Butsumai' (Buddha Dance) performed annually on May 8th. About a 50-minute walk from JR Matsuo-ji Station, or about a 40-minute walk from the Matsuo-ji-guchi bus stop. Parking is available at the approach to the temple (paid). It is a mountain temple with slopes on the path. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

12th temple. The principal image is Senju Kannon Bosatsu, and this ancient temple, legend has it, was founded in 722 by Taicho. It is worshipped as 'Abura Kannon' (Sweating Kannon) and 'Kaminari Yoke Kannon' (Thunder Protection Kannon). Located on the middle slope of Mt. Iwama (443m above sea level), a large Katsura tree stands in front of the main hall, related to the legend of its founding. There is also a pond associated with Matsuo Basho. The nearest station is JR/Keihan Ishiyama Station, accessible by bus, with a walking section and mountain path. Parking is available at the entrance to the approach. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

13th temple. The principal image is Nyoirin Kannon Bosatsu, and legend has it that it was founded in 747 by Roben. It is a temple associated with literature, famous for the 'Genji no Ma' (Genji Room) where Murasaki Shikibu conceived the idea for 'The Tale of Genji.' The main hall, rebuilt in the Heian period, and the beautiful three-story pagoda are both National Treasures. The limestone from which the temple derives its name is a natural monument. About a 10-minute walk from Keihan Ishiyama-dera Station; paid parking available. The temple grounds have gentle stone steps. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

14th temple. The principal image of the pilgrimage is Nyoirin Kannon Bosatsu. It is the head temple of the Tendai Jimon sect, a large temple said to have been founded in 686. The Kannon-dō is located on a hill overlooking the city of Otsu, and the main hall from the Momoyama period is a National Treasure. It is also known for the 'Evening Bell of Mii' from the Omi Hakkei (Eight Views of Omi) and as a famous cherry blossom viewing spot. About a 7-minute walk from Keihan Mii-dera Station; large parking lot available. There is an uphill climb with stone steps to the Kannon-dō. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

30th temple. The principal image is Senju Sen'gen Kannon Bosatsu. Located on Chikubu Island in Lake Biwa, it is also known as one of Japan's three Benzaiten shrines. Access for worship is by boat, and you take a sightseeing boat from Nagahama Port or other locations to the island. After disembarking, you ascend the steep stone steps (approx. 165 steps) called the 'Stairs of Prayer' to the main hall. An additional island entrance fee is required. *The mountain path and stone steps are long, so pay attention to your stamina and time. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

31st temple. The principal image is Senju Jūichimen Shō Kannon Bosatsu, a single statue embodying Senju, Jūichimen, and Shō Kannon. This ancient temple, said to be associated with Prince Shōtoku, is known for its prayers for longevity. About a 20-minute bus ride from Ōmihachiman Station on the Ōmi Railway Bus, alighting at Chōmei-ji. The approach consists of 808 stone steps, taking about 20 minutes to climb on foot. Cars and taxis can go up a forest road to near the remaining 100 stone steps. *The mountain path and stone steps are long, so pay attention to your stamina and time. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

32nd temple. The principal image is Senju Sen'gen Kannon Bosatsu. Located on the summit of Mt. Kinugasa (approx. 433m above sea level), it is also called the 'Temple in the Sky.' This ancient temple is said to have been founded by Prince Shōtoku. You can drive up to the mountain parking lot via the main approach forest road (with operating hours), and then climb stone steps from there. The walking approach has long and steep stone steps. It is known for its seated statue of Senju Kannon made entirely of Indian sandalwood. *The mountain path and stone steps are long, so pay attention to your stamina and time. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

24th temple. The principal image is Jūichimen Kannon Bosatsu. This ancient temple, said to have been founded by Prince Shōtoku, is widely worshipped as a sacred site for prayers for safe childbirth. The temple grounds are barrier-free, with escalators and elevators. It is conveniently located about a 1-3 minute walk from Hankyu Takarazuka Line Nakayamakannon Station and JR Nakayamadera Station, making it easy to visit. Parking is available nearby. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

25th temple. The principal image is Jūichimen Senju Kannon Bosatsu. Legend has it that it was founded by Hōdō Sennin, and it was named 'Kiyomizu-dera' out of gratitude for a sacred spring that gushed forth in a land lacking water. Located on Mt. Myōtō (approx. 500m above sea level), it is known for its panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea and Awaji Island. Accessible by bus from JR Fukuchiyama Line Aino Station (infrequent service), alighting at Kiyomizu-dera. Free parking available. It is a mountain temple with slopes and stone steps within the grounds. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

26th temple. The principal image is Shō Kannon Bosatsu. This ancient Tendai sect temple, legend has it, was founded by Hōdō Sennin. Its three-story pagoda, built in 1171 during the late Heian period, is a National Treasure. Accessible immediately after alighting at Hokkezan Ichijō-ji bus stop from Himeji Station (infrequent service). By car, it is about 15 minutes from Kasai city center, via a winding mountain road. Parking available. You ascend stone steps (over 160 steps) to the main hall. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

27th temple. The principal image is Nyoirin Kannon Bosatsu. This special head temple of the Tendai sect, known as the 'Mt. Hiei of the West,' is said to have been founded in 966 by Abbot Shōkū. Many buildings, including Mani-den and Sannō-dō, are Important Cultural Properties. Accessible by Shinki Bus from Himeji Station to the Shosha Ropeway terminal, then about a 4-minute ropeway ride to the mountaintop. From the mountaintop station, it is about a 15-20 minute walk along the approach to Mani-den. Parking available. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.

33rd temple. The principal image is Jūichimen Kannon Bosatsu. Legend has it that it was founded in 798 by Abbot Hōzen, and it is affectionately known as 'Tanigumi-san.' It is the temple of completion (fulfillment) of the 33 Saigoku pilgrimage. It has the Oirisudō and Mangan-dō halls, which convey the joy of completing the pilgrimage, and a solemn atmosphere as the final destination. Accessible by Ibigawa Town Bus from Tanigumi-guchi Station on the Tarumi Railway, alighting at Tanigumi-san, and walking along the approach in front of the gate. Parking available. *Please confirm visiting hours, Goshuin (temple seal), and fees on the official website.