Kizugawa City’s Beautiful Charm: History Meets Splendor of Fall Foliage

At Kaijusenji Temple (address: 20 Reihei Kaijusen, Kamo-cho, Kizugawa City), you can admire Japan’s only surviving five-storied pagoda (a National Treasure) from the Kamakura Period (completed in 1214).

It is the second smallest outdoor five-storied pagoda in Japan. It features mokoshi (roof-like structures on walls beneath eaves) under the lowest eaves.

Nestled in the mountains, the temple also offers a great view of the Mikanohara area, where the ancient capital, Kunikyo was located.

It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in the wonders of history and be captivated by the changing seasons.

Why not spend a memorable time here? A fall special exhibition of the temple’s treasures is also held until Sunday, November 30th.

↑　Gansenji Temple

↑　Joruriji Temple

In addition to Kaijusenji Temple, be sure to visit Gansenji Temple (address: 43 Iwafune Kaminomon, Kamo-cho, Kizugawa City) and Joruriji Temple (address: 40 Nishio Futaba, Kamo-cho, Kizugawa City) during the fall foliage season!

Gansenji Temple is said to have been founded in 729.

Its seated Amida Nyorai statue is about three meters tall, and the gentle expression brings comfort to viewers.

Joruriji Temple’s Main Hall, Three-Storied Pagoda, nine statues of Amida Nyorai, and statues of Four Heavenly Kings are designated as National Treasures.

These temples also offer fall special exhibitions. Additionally, a special bus is running on Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays until December 7th, taking visitors on a “pilgrimage” of these ancient temples from the west exit of JR Nara Station and Kintetsu Nara Station.