Anaoji Temple (穴太寺)

Flow of the course

About this spot

An ancient temple in Sogabe-cho, Kameoka City, known as the twenty-first temple of the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage. It stands amid fields, and once you pass through the gate a tahoto pagoda and the main hall line up in silence, with a calm atmosphere quite unlike a temple in the middle of a city. The main hall is home to the legend of the substitute Kannon, and worshippers never stop coming. The garden seen from the study hall is a composed design that draws the mountains of Tamba in as borrowed scenery. Kameoka Sports Park is only a few minutes away by car, so it sits perfectly as the first stop of the morning.

Tips

Check the admission fee and viewing hours on the information at the site. Reception for the main hall and the garden may be separate, so checking first keeps things smooth. The precinct is mostly gravel paths, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Agreeing in advance to stay quiet while praying makes for a calm visit.

Best time to visit

About 1 hour. The morning, before the sun climbs, is the most comfortable time of day.

Access & map

46 Anao Higashinotsuji, Sogabe-cho, Kameoka City, Kyoto 621-0029