Byakugoji
奈良県
Built on the mountain villa of Prince Shiki — son of Emperor Tenji — high on Mt. Takamado, famed for its five-color camellia and bush clover
Founded
715
Type
Temple
Visited
Want to go
Access
From JR/Kintetsu Nara Station, take a bus to Takabatake-cho stop, then 20 min walk
392 Byakugoji-cho, Nara
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Overview
A Shingon Ritsu temple built on the site of the mountain villa of Prince Shiki, a son of Emperor Tenchi, with Amida Nyorai as its principal deity. Located on the western slope of Mt. Takamado at an elevation of about 100 meters, the grounds command a magnificent panoramic view of the Nara Basin. The seated Amida Nyorai statue in the main hall is a Heian-period work designated an Important Cultural…
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Origins
Byakugoji Temple is traditionally said to have been founded in 715, though some sources give 721 as an alternative date. It is believed to have been established on the site of the mountain villa of Prince Shiki, a son of Emperor Tenchi, to pray for the repose of the prince's soul. During the Heian p…
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Pilgrimage Courses
Shinbutsu Reijo Pilgrimage
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Divine Benefits
Purification
Rebirth in Pure Land
Cleansing impurity, spiritual purification, driving away evil. Rooted in misogi ablutions and goma fire rites.
Derived from the enshrined deity "阿弥陀如来"
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Visiting Information
Hours
Visiting hours 9:00-17:00
Admission
Adults/university 500, high/junior high 300, elementary 200.
As of 2026-07-17. Subject to change.
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