Kinpusen-ji Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Kinpusen-ji Temple, on Mount Yoshino in Nara, is the heart of Shugendo, Japan's ancient mountain ascetic tradition. With over 1,300 years of history, it is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range." Its National Treasure, Zao-do Hall, houses three magnificent 7-meter-tall statues of Kongo Zao Gongen. Visit Kinpusen-ji to experience Japan's spiritual heritage amid the beauty of Mount Yoshino.
View scenic routes that include this spot
From Tokyo’s Shrine to Prayer and Daily Life in Nara and Yoshino: A Journey to Discover Japan’s Spiritual Culture
More Information about Kinpusen-ji Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Street address
- 2498 Yoshinoyama, Yoshino-cho, Yoshino-gun, Nara 639-3115, Japan
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Access
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- 30-min walk from Yoshino Station, or ropeway to Yoshinoyama Station + 10-min walk.
(Substitute bus available if ropeway is suspended.)
- 30-min walk from Yoshino Station, or ropeway to Yoshinoyama Station + 10-min walk.
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Opening Hours
- 8:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (Zaodo Hall admission hours). Hours may vary during special events or seasonal periods.
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Closed
- Open year-round. Admission or access may be limited during religious ceremonies or special events.
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Best season
- All year
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Point
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the temple grounds include steep slopes and stone steps. Spring cherry blossoms and autumn foliage are especially beautiful. If possible, visit during the special exhibition periods to see the rarely displayed Zao Gongen statues.
update: Oct.28.2026
