Niu Kanshobu Shrine (Niukanshobu Jinja)

This venerable shrine has three main sanctuary buildings registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is said to have begun in 816, when Kobo Daishi, Kukai, enshrined two deities—Niutsuhime (Niutsuhime) and Takanomiko (Takanomiko). Since then, it has continued to protect the area as the gateway to Mount Koya pilgrimages, building a long and storied history.

It is the 11th pilgrim site in Wakayama on the Shinto and Buddhist Sacred Sites Pilgrimage, and a go-to place for locals for Hatsumode (the first shrine visit of the New Year). In cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, worshippers also come from outside the prefecture in search of its elegant scenery.

The three main sanctuary buildings stand side by side in a single row and are designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. Built in the traditional Kasuga-zukuri style, the floor and roof sit atop four round pillars rising from the base; the gracefully curved cypress-bark roof and vivid colors reminiscent of the Pure Land are especially striking. Though all three date to the 16th century, they are well preserved and still convey the distinctive features of shrine architecture from that era.

Many items are available, including a guidance amulet said to lead you in a good direction and a matchmaking amulet, so when you visit, be sure to receive one as a keepsake and a blessing.