The whole temple complex is huge and really solemn. Walking around, you feel especially calm and at peace.
Cherry blossoms in spring and maple leaves in fall—so beautiful and super photogenic.
If you’re into that quiet, serene vibe of old Japanese temples, this place is absolutely worth a visit!
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Negoro-ji Temple
Be moved by 7,000 cherry trees in bloom at an old temple that still retains a medieval atmosphere.
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A quiet, medieval-tinged atmosphere still lingers across the grounds at Negoro-ji Temple in Iwade City in northern Wakayama Prefecture. It serves as the head temple of the Shingi Shingon school, with a tradition spanning Approx. 900 years since its founding.
Its vast grounds cover 3.5 million square meters and are filled with historically significant structures, including the Important Cultural Property Dendenpo-do Hall, which enshrines three statues such as the Important Cultural Property Dainichi Nyorai. Above all, the National Treasure Daito Pagoda—40 meters tall and 15 meters wide—is among the largest in Japan. Inside, 12 pillars rise in an arc, and the principal image is Taizo Dainichi Nyorai; its solemn, imposing presence is sure to leave a powerful impression.
In spring, the cherry trees planted throughout the grounds come into bloom, drawing many visitors as one of the area’s top spots for cherry blossom viewing. The delicate sight of Approx. 7,000 Somei Yoshino and Yamazakura (Japanese mountain cherry) trees flowering at this old temple with a medieval atmosphere is so celebrated that it was selected as one of Japan’s “100 Best Cherry Blossom Spots.” Around peak bloom, the area near the Daimon Gate is illuminated, making it a great place to enjoy cherry blossoms at night.
Highlights
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Head temple of the Shingi Shingon school in northern Wakayama Prefecture, with Approx. 900 years of history since its founding.
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Vast grounds with historically significant buildings, spanning 350 hectares (Approx. 76 Tokyo Domes); Approx. 100 hectares (Approx. 20 Tokyo Domes) are designated as a historic site.
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Spring brings Approx. 7,000 Somei Yoshino and Yamazakura (Japanese mountain cherry) trees into full bloom.
Photos
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Cherry blossoms typically reach full bloom from late March to early April
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Another highlight is the chance to enjoy cherry blossoms at night, which is rare in the area
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Be sure to visit during the fall foliage season as well
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Do you have pamphlets in other languages? (If so, please also inform us of the supported languages)
A
English pamphlets available.
Q
Do you offer goshuin (temple seals)?
A
Yes. (5 types: Dainichi Nyorai, Kogyo Daishi, Gyosha-do Hall, Migawari Fudo, and Aizen Myo-o)
Q
Is there a parking lot?
A
Yes. (Approx. 80 spaces)
Q
Are there coin lockers?
A
No.
Reviews
2
Some reviews are AI-translated.
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The entire temple area is massive and so quiet. The moment you step in, it feels like you’re surrounded by history.
Cherry blossoms in spring, gorgeous fall colors in autumn—everything looks amazing in photos.
Perfect for taking your time, strolling around, and just unwinding.
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 根來寺
- Postal Code
- 649-6202
- Address
- 2286 Negoro, Iwade City, Wakayama
- Phone
- 0736-62-1144
- Closed on
- Open daily
- Hours
- 9:10 am-4:30 pm (Winter season (November-March): 9:10 am-4:00 pm)
- Admission
- Worship fee: Adults (junior high school students and older) 500 yen; children free
- Access
- 1) Iwade City Loop Bus: 1-minute walk from the “Negoro-ji” bus stop
- Credit Cards
- Not accepted
- Official website
- Official website
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