Overview
Seiganto-ji is a Tendai Buddhist temple on Mount Nachi in Nachikatsuura, Wakayama Prefecture, with the mountain name Nachisan and Nyoirin Kannon as its principal image. It is the first stop on the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage and forms part of the Kumano Sanzan complex. It is included among the components of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range."
Highlights
- ●The renowned first stop of the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage
- ●A main hall designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan
- ●A sacred site forming part of the Kumano Sanzan
- ●A component of the World Heritage "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range"
History
According to legend, the temple was founded by Ragyo Shonin, a monk who came from India. It was built near Nachi Falls, a place thought to have earlier been a site of nature worship. It is known as one of the few temples still conveying the blending of Shinto and Buddhism that persisted through the separation enforced during the Meiji era.
Access
The temple stands on Mount Nachi in Nachikatsuura, Higashimuro District, Wakayama Prefecture. Public transport and local bus services are convenient for the visit.
Best season
Set among the mountains of Kumano, the area offers different moods through the four seasons. The mild weather of spring and autumn is well suited to walking the approach paths.
Map
33.6696, 135.8899 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Follow the approach path toward the precincts of Seiganto-ji
- 2Pay respects to Nyoirin Kannon at the main hall, an Important Cultural Property
- 3Explore the precincts as part of the Kumano Sanzan
- 4Stroll the surrounding sacred sites and pilgrimage routes of Kumano
Did you know?
💡 The Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage of thirty-three sites begins here at its first stop.
Nearby spots
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