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Matsuoji (Matsuo Temple)

📕 Goshuin from visitors

Matsuoji (Matsuo Temple)

〒639-1057 奈良県大和郡山市山田町683

4.3(796)

A special head temple of the Shingon Daigo school, Matsuoji is renowned as Japan's oldest temple for warding off misfortune (yakuyoke). Its principal image is the Thousand-Armed, Thousand-Eyed Kannon (Avalokiteshvara). The temple grounds feature a rose garden, and the site is also well known as a premier destination for viewing roses.

History

According to tradition, the temple was founded in 718 CE (Yorō 2) by Prince Shōtoku (Shinin Shinno), a son of Emperor Tenmu, who established it to pray for his own protection from misfortune and for the successful completion of the Nihon Shoki (Chronicles of Japan). From the medieval period onward, it was referred to as a sub-temple or came under the jurisdiction of Kofukuji and Horyuji. From the Muromachi period onward, it also flourished as a base for the Shugendo Tozan school. During the Edo period, it received a gift of a statue of Jurokannon (Avalokiteshvara) from Emperor Go-Mizunoo.

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What visitors say

Known for its power to ward off misfortune, this solemn temple attracts many visitors from distant places. As the approach from the parking lot involves climbing stairs and slopes, a reasonable amount of physical stamina is required for worship. From the grounds, one can enjoy a panoramic view of the Nara Basin, and the surrounding area offers a rich natural environment that is also popular with hikers.

Opening hours

  • Monday: 9:00 – 16:00
  • Tuesday: 9:00 – 16:00
  • Wednesday: 9:00 – 16:00
  • Thursday: 9:00 – 16:00
  • Friday: 9:00 – 16:00
  • Saturday: 9:00 – 16:00
  • Sunday: 9:00 – 16:00
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