You'll find Komyo-ji Temple on a mountain slope in the forests of Ayabe City. It was said to have been founded by the legendary Prince Shotoku (572-622). The temple's main Niomon Gate was constructed in 1248 and was designated as a National Treasure in 1954. The gate has a gabled roof with rare shingles that aren't commonly found in Japan.
The temple and gate are along walking trails just up the road from Ayabe Onsen. These trails lead to a great horse chestnut tree, which is estimated to be nearly 2,000 years old.
- Tel
- 0773-55-0550
- Address
- 1-1 Kimino, Mutsuyori-cho, Ayabe City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Access
- Bus:
Take the Uebayashi bus line from JR Ayabe Station. Get off at "Ayabe Onsen" bus stop and walk 40 minutes.
Car: Turn right onto National Route 27 at the Yamaga intersection and head north. Take a left before "Shimoichiba" bus stop and continue straight.
Notes: the mountain road continues up towards the temple from Ayabe Onsen and there is a parking lot at the top. Due to snowfall, the road may be impassable in winter. - Parking
- Available