Nariaiji Temple

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Nariaiji Temple

A temple near the breathtaking Amanohashidate, known for granting wishes.

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Head Editor : Nariaiji Temple

Perched on the shoulder of Mount Nariai (Tsutsumiga-dake) in Miyazu City, Kyoto Prefecture, this temple founded in 704 stands to this day with stunning vistas of Amanohashidate, one of Japan’s Three Scenic Views.

The name "Nariai" means "wishes come true”. According to legend, the temple's principal deity, the Bodhisattva Kannon, transformed into a deer to save a starving monk, earning it the nickname "Substitute Kannon”. Many refer to this destination as the "Beauty Kannon", as worshippers believe that visiting the temple brings both physical and spiritual beauty.

Dotted across the temple grounds are highlights like the Bottomless Pond, associated with a folktale about a serpent, the Dragon Facing Forward carving by Edo-period sculptor Hidari Jingoro, and a five-story pagoda. Don’t miss the Ichigan Hitokoto Jizo, a guardian statue believed to grant any wish if conveyed in a single word.

Seasonal beauty beams all across the year, from 3,000 cherry blossoms in spring, rhododendrons in early summer, autumn foliage with light displays, to serene winter snowscapes.

Top off your visit with a stop at the mountaintop panorama viewing deck and relax at the Bijin Saryo café, a perfect spot to unwind.

Highlights

  • A temple whose name means "wishes come true”.
  • It’s said that worshipping the principal deity here, Sho Kannon Bosatsu, brings both physical and spiritual beauty.
  • Famous for the Ichigan Hitokoto Jizo, which grants wishes conveyed in a single word.
  • Enjoy seasonal beauty: cherry blossoms in spring, rhododendrons in early summer, autumn foliage, and snowy landscapes in winter.

Photos

  • A temple located on the mountainside, whose name means "wishes come true."

    A temple located on the mountainside, whose name means "wishes come true."

  • The principal deity, Sho Kannon Bosatsu, was crafted during the Heian period (photo shows the substitute statue).

    The principal deity, Sho Kannon Bosatsu, was crafted during the Heian period (photo shows the substitute statue).

  • The Bottomless Pond, believed to be where a defeated serpent lies submerged.

    The Bottomless Pond, believed to be where a defeated serpent lies submerged.

  • The Ichigan Hitokoto Jizo is said to grant wishes if conveyed in a single word.

    The Ichigan Hitokoto Jizo is said to grant wishes if conveyed in a single word.

  • In spring, 3,000 cherry trees bloom in full glory.

    In spring, 3,000 cherry trees bloom in full glory.

  • In autumn, the trees turn vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red.

    In autumn, the trees turn vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red.

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Do you have pamphlets in other languages? (If so, please also inform us of the supported languages)

A

Only English pamphlets available.

Q

Do you have temple’s red ink stamps?

A

Yes.

Q

Is parking available?

A

Yes. (About 30 cars)

Q

Are coin lockers available?

A

Not available.

Reviews

Details

Name in Japanese
成相寺
Postal Code
629-2241
Address
339 Nariaiji, Miyazu City, Kyoto
Telephone
0772-27-0018
Closed
Free to walk
Business Hours
8:00am - 4:30pm
Admission
Adults 500yen, Free for Junior high school students and younger
Access
(1) About 25 minutes by car from Kyoto Tango Railway Miyatoyo Line’s Amanohashidate Station.
(2) From Kyoto Tango Railway Miyamai Line’s Amanohashidate Station, take a sightseeing boat to "Ichinomiya," transfer to a cable car or lift to "Kasa-matsu Park," then board a mountain bus to "Nariaiji." Total travel time is approximately 50 minutes.
Credit Cards
Accepted
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)