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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Nariai-ji Temple is an ancient Tendai Buddhist temple located on Mount Nariai (approximately 350m above sea level) in Miyazu City, Kyoto Prefecture. Legend has it that it dates back to the Nara and Heian periods, and the temple grounds and views that spread across the mountain offer a panoramic view of Amanohashidate, one of Japan's three most scenic views. It has long been popular with worshippers and writers as a famous spot where you can view the landscape interwoven with sea and land from above. The temple's charm lies in its pure mountain temple atmosphere, the seasonal natural scenery (fresh greenery, autumn leaves, winter scenery), and the historic buildings.
Highlights
- Great view of Amanohashidate:From the observation points on the temple grounds and the approach to the shrine, you can get a bird's-eye view of Amanohashidate stretching out like a peninsula. On sunny days, the blue of the sea and the green of the pine trees stand out, making this a popular photo spot.
- Main hall and temples:The historic main hall, plaster-walled halls, and stone steps remain, giving the temple a tranquil atmosphere befitting an ancient temple (temple viewing times may be limited).
- Approach to the shrine, stone steps, and rows of cedar trees:The walk up the quaint mountain temple path to the temple grounds is also a highlight. Depending on the season, the fresh greenery or autumn leaves are beautiful, making it a great place for a photo stroll.
- Observation deck and photo spot:On the hill within the temple grounds is a popular spot for taking photos of Amanohashidate, allowing you to capture the best angle.
- Four Seasons Scenery:Another great attraction is the way the scenery changes with the seasons, such as the fresh greenery of spring, the autumn leaves, and the snowy scenery of winter.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station:Kyoto Tango Railway (Kitakinki Tango Railway) Amanohashidate Station (the base for sightseeing in Amanohashidate). Miyazu Station is also available.
- Public transportation:
- From Amanohashidate Station, take a tourist bus or taxi to head towards Nariai-ji Temple. Buses run in limited numbers, so we recommend checking the timetable in advance.
- Shuttles and special services may operate during peak tourist seasons, but congestion and delays may occur during peak times.
- car:
- Accessible from Kyoto city and Osaka via expressways and public roads. Please drive carefully as the road to Nariai-ji Temple includes mountain roads, steep slopes, and curves. There is a paid parking lot near the temple grounds, but it may be full during busy times.
- taxi:It is convenient to take a taxi from Amanohashidate Station or Miyazu Station. The travel time varies depending on the departure station and traffic conditions.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short: View only (mainly for photography)... 30-45 minutes
- Standard: Visit the temple grounds + view + photography... 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes
- Relaxed: If you take your time to look around the temple grounds and combine it with a stroll around the surrounding area...more than 2 hours
Nearby spots
- Amanohashidate (tourist attraction, walking trails with sandbars and pine forests)
- Chionji Temple (an ancient temple at the foot of Amanohashidate, a popular pilgrimage spot)
- Kasamatsu Park (an observation park on the opposite bank of Amanohashidate, with lifts and cables)
- Amanohashidate View Land (Amusement park and observation deck, popular with families)
- Ine Funaya (approximately 30-40 minutes by car, a scenic spot lined with traditional boathouses)
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion:Parking lots and buses tend to be crowded during spring (cherry blossoms), Golden Week, summer vacation, autumn (autumn leaves), and long weekends, so please plan ahead and allow plenty of time.
- Clothes/shoes:There are slopes and stone steps leading to the temple grounds, so we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Be careful as the grounds can be slippery in rainy weather.
- Opening and closing times and admission fees:The number of admission fees and admission to the temple may vary depending on the time and season. Please check the official information or information desk in advance for the latest information.
- Manners:Temples are places of worship. Please observe proper etiquette when offering incense and offering money, and refrain from taking photos in prohibited areas. Be sure to take your trash home with you.
- weather:The mountain is windy and experiences temperature fluctuations. It is especially cold in winter, and there are days when visibility is poor, so be sure to take measures to protect yourself from the cold and check the weather forecast.
- traffic:There are some sections where buses run infrequently, so be sure to check the return bus schedule or consider arranging a taxi.
Nariai-ji Temple is a great spot for viewing Amanohashidate from above, and has the calm atmosphere that only a mountain temple can offer. The temple's appearance changes dramatically depending on the season and time of day, so if you visit on a clear day, you'll be able to enjoy an even more impressive view.
