Kinpusen-ji
In Japanese: 金峯山寺
The head temple of Shugendo at the heart of Yoshinoyama and a World Heritage site. The main hall Zao-do and the Niomon gate are National Treasures; Zao-do is said to be the largest ancient wooden building after Todai-ji's Great Buddha Hall.
World Heritage (Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range); National Treasures (Zao-do and Niomon gate)
Nearby
- Mt. Yoshino ≈ 10 min by car
- Dorogawa Onsen ≈ 30 min by car
- Tanzan Shrine ≈ 35 min by car
- Ishibutai Kofun (Asuka) ≈ 35 min by car
- Okadera Temple (Ryugaiji) ≈ 35 min by car
Travel times are rough estimates by car.
- Getting there
- From Kintetsu Yoshino Sta. take the Yoshinoyama Ropeway to Yoshinoyama Sta., then about 10 min on foot (the ropeway normally runs Fri-Mon only)
- Fee
- Zao-do: adults ¥800, junior/senior high ¥600, elementary ¥400 (adults ¥1,600 during the special opening)
- Good to know
- Zao-do and Noten Daijin Ryuoin open 8:30-16:00. Secret main image special opening Oct 24-Nov 30, 2026. The National Treasure Niomon gate is the subject of a major repair project. Entry may be restricted during services.
- Time needed
- 1 h
Checked against the official Japanese website on 2026-10-15. Report outdated info