Important Cultural Property of Wakayama

Discover the Shihon Hakubyō Fudō Myōō Nidōji Bishamonten Zuzō, a Nationally Important Cultural Property of Japan housed at Entsū-ji Temple on Mount Kōya in Wakayama Prefecture. This rare esoteric Buddhist iconographic drawing on paper depicts Fudō Myōō with two attendant boys and the guardian deity Bishamonten, executed in the refined hakubyō (white-line) ink technique. Learn about its iconographic significance, the history of its closed training-temple home, and how to experience the world of Mount Kōya — a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Discover the Important Cultural Property held at Jizo-in temple on sacred Mt. Koya in Wakayama Prefecture. This illustrated handscroll narrates the life of Kobo Daishi Kukai, founder of Shingon Buddhism, with the supplementary first volume reflecting twelve centuries of devotion. We guide you through its significance, the Reihokan museum where treasures are exhibited, and the wonders of UNESCO-listed Mt. Koya.

A portrait sculpture of Hotto Kokushi, founder of Kokokuji in Yura, dated 1286. A realistic Kamakura chinso kept as a temple treasure, not on permanent view.

Two Heian-period figures at Kimiidera, second temple of the Saigoku route. Called Brahma and Indra but in bodhisattva form. On view in the Daikomyoden since 2023.

A Kamakura sea-crossing Monju group at Henmyoin on Mount Koya: the lion-mounted bodhisattva with four attendants. Held by the Reihokan, shown in rotating displays.

A Kamakura standing Jikokuten at Henjokoin on Mount Koya, guardian of the east, an armoured warrior on a demon. Held by the Reihokan, shown in rotating displays.

In 1987 a ruined eighth-century Kannon emerged from inside Dōjō-ji's secret statue. Faceless yet ancient, this wood-core figure may date to the temple's founding.

Dōjō-ji's North-Facing Kannon, shown once every 33 years, is a sheath carved in the Nanbokuchō era to enclose and protect an eighth-century image within.

Five seated Buddhas have sat inside Kōyasan's oldest building since 1223. Discover the Kamakura sculpture, the nun-shogun who raised the tower, and when it opens.