Overview
Nichirin-ji is a temple of the Koyasan Shingon sect located in the Kawane area of Kudoyama, Ito District, Wakayama Prefecture. Its principal image is Dainichi Nyorai (Mahavairocana), and it carries the mountain name Daichi-zan and the hall name Henjo-in.
Highlights
- ●Main hall enshrining the principal image, Dainichi Nyorai
- ●Formal temple status carrying the mountain name Daichi-zan and hall name Henjo-in
- ●Historical role as the administering temple of Kawane Niu Shrine
- ●A stamp station along the Koya Nanakuchi pilgrim route
History
The temple has long served as the bettō-ji, or administering temple, of the neighboring Kawane Niu Shrine, reflecting the historical blending of Shinto and Buddhist practice once common in this region. Detailed founding dates and further background are not recorded in currently available sources, so visitors are encouraged to check on-site information or official references.
Access
Nichirin-ji sits in the Kawane settlement of Kudoyama town, along one of the "Koya Nanakuchi" — the seven traditional pilgrimage routes leading to Koyasan. Because specific transport details may change, it is worth confirming current routes and schedules before visiting.
Best season
As a stop along a mountain pilgrimage route, the temple likely sees more foot traffic during spring and autumn when hiking conditions are comfortable, though no specific seasonal events are documented in available sources.
Map
34.2761, 135.5792 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Arrive at the Kawane settlement in Kudoyama town
- 2Pay respects to Dainichi Nyorai in the main hall and collect a stamp in the pilgrim booklet
- 3Visit the adjacent Kawane Niu Shrine to see the historical Shinto-Buddhist connection
- 4Continue along the Koya Nanakuchi route toward Koyasan
Did you know?
💡 The temple serves as one of the stamp stations for the "Koya Nanakuchi Oshin-cho," a stamp booklet used by pilgrims and hikers walking the seven historic routes into Koyasan.
Nearby spots
Traveler reviews0
No reviews yet. Be the first to share!