Kimii-dera Temple

Overview

Kimii-dera is a Buddhist temple in the city of Wakayama, Wakayama Prefecture, and the head temple of the Kusei Kannon sect. Its honzon is a hidden image of Jūichimen Kannon, and its full name is Kimiiyama Gokoku-in Kongōhō-ji. The temple is the 2nd stop on the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage and takes its name from three springs that rise within the grounds.

Highlights

• ●The 2nd stop on the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage
• ●The three springs — Kisshō-sui, Seijō-sui, and Yōryū-sui — that give the temple its name
• ●Spring water selected as one of Japan's 100 Famous Waters
• ●A noted cherry-blossom site chosen among Japan's 100 Best Cherry Blossom Spots

History

Traditionally founded in 770, Kimii-dera is the head temple of the Kusei Kannon sect and enshrines a hibutsu image of Jūichimen Kannon. Named after the three springs within its grounds, its full name is Kimiiyama Gokoku-in Kongōhō-ji. It has long drawn pilgrims as the 2nd stop on the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage. Formerly part of Shingon Buddhism, the temple became independent in 1951.

Map

34.1852, 135.1900 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Visit the main hall as the 2nd stop on the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage
2. 2Explore the halls associated with the honzon, Jūichimen Kannon
3. 3Follow the three springs that name the temple, including its 100 Famous Waters source
4. 4Conclude with the panoramic view of Wakaura Bay from the grounds

Did you know?

💡 The temple is named after its three springs — Kisshō-sui, Seijō-sui, and Yōryū-sui — that rise within the grounds.

Nearby spots