Tsubosaka-dera Temple, revered for its efficacious Kannon statue believed to cure eye diseases, is also famous as the setting for the joruri puppet play "Tsubosaka Reigenki." It's a historic temple cherished by many people throughout the ages.
Shrines and Temples
World Heritage
Highlights
A temple enshrining the Eleven-headed Kannon, believed to cure eye diseases.
The 6th temple on the Saigoku Sanjusanso pilgrimage route.
The setting for the joruri puppet play "Tsubosaka Reigenki."
Many historically significant structures remain, including a three-story pagoda rebuilt in the Muromachi period.
Statues of O-sato and Sawashi, and other noteworthy sights, are located on the temple grounds.
Take the Kintetsu Yoshino Line to Tsubosaka-yama Station, then take a Nara Kotsu bus bound for Tsubosaka-dera-mae (approx. 11 minutes). The temple is a 5-minute walk from the bus stop.
From the Koriyama IC on the Nishimeihanshin Expressway, take National Route 24 and National Route 169, then take Prefectural Route 119 for about 2km from Shimizu-dani Intersection (signs are available). Show route
Op.Hours
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Cld.Days
Open all year round
Fee
Adults (18 and over): ¥600, Children (High school students and younger): ¥100, Infants (5 and under): Free. Disabled individuals with a disability certificate are admitted free of charge, including one accompanying caregiver. Group discounts available.
Tsubosaka-dera Temple (Nan Hoke-ji Temple) is a Shingon sect temple located in Tsubosaka, Takatori-cho, Takaichi-gun, Nara Prefecture. Its mountain name is Tsubosaka-yama. The principal image is the Eleven-headed Kannon, and it's commonly known as Tsubosaka-dera Temple (tsubosaka-dera). It's also known as the 6th temple on the Saigoku Sanjusanso pilgrimage route and has been an object of faith for many people throughout history.
Known for its miraculous healing of eye diseases, Tsubosaka-dera Temple has been a site of faith for many people for centuries. The temple grounds are home to many historical structures, such as the octagonal hall housing the principal image and the three-story pagoda rebuilt during the Muromachi period. The octagonal hall was rebuilt in the Edo period and houses a seated statue of the Eleven-headed Kannon. The three-story pagoda, rebuilt in 1497 (Meio 6), is a designated Important Cultural Property of Japan.
Furthermore, Tsubosaka-dera Temple is famous as the setting for the joruri puppet play "Tsubosaka Reigenki." This play depicts the tragic love story of a blind daughter, O-sato, and a young man, Sawashi, and the temple has captivated the hearts of many as the stage for this story. Statues of O-sato and Sawashi are also erected on the temple grounds, allowing visitors to contemplate their tragic romance.
Tsubosaka-dera Temple is believed to grant various wishes, including healing eye diseases, marital bliss, and household safety. The temple grounds also feature beautiful gardens and lush mountains, offering the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate. Be sure to visit Tsubosaka-dera Temple, surrounded by history and nature.