Nariaiji Temple

Nariaiji Temple (成相寺), a historic Shingon sect temple in western Japan, sits on the slopes of Mount Tsuzumigatake, overlooking the Amanohashidate Sandbar and Miyazu Bay. Originally established at the mountain’s peak, the temple was relocated to its current site approximately 250 years ago after a major landslide threatened its stability. Despite the relocation, visitors can still enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the bay and surrounding mountains. Reaching Nariaiji requires a bit of effort—accessible via a winding mountain road or shuttle bus—but the peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery make the trip well worth it.

As one of the 33 sacred sites along the Kansai Kannon Pilgrimage, Nariaiji Temple is dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy, and features a revered wooden statue of Kannon as its principal object of worship. The temple grounds offer a tranquil setting with several notable structures, including a bell tower housing the “Bell of Neutrality,” which visitors may ring while offering prayers for peace, and a striking five-story pagoda rebuilt in the 1990s that rises elegantly against the forested backdrop. Surrounded by natural beauty and rich spiritual tradition, Nariaiji Temple invites visitors to reflect and experience a sense of serenity and reverence.