Heal Your Heart at Mt. Ushitaki
The sound of waterfalls, the rustle of leaves, and the crunch of gravel underfoot... Mt.
Ushitaki, well-known for its vibrant maple trees in autumn, is a sanctuary of silence where the
sounds of nature echo, and the clean air flows gently into your soul. As you walk along the
mountain path, you will come upon Daiitokuji (Daiitoku Temple), an ancient temple
nestled
in the hills. Its red tahoto (a two-tiered treasure pagoda found in Japanese Buddhist
temples,
symbolizing Buddhist teachings and scriptures) stands proudly, with a majestic beauty.
Enjoy Majestic Nature with All Five Senses
Daiitokuji Temple is a mountain temple situated in the foothills of Mt. Katsuragi in
the
mountainous
area of Kishiwada.
Here, you will find the 10th kyozuka, or sutra mound, of Katsuragi Shugendo (a form of Japanese mountain asceticism),
recognized as a Japan Heritage site, where the “Victorious Buddha,” Daiitoku Myo-o, is enshrined.
The harmony between the tahoto (treasure pagoda), designated an Important Cultural Property,
and the surrounding nature is truly moving.
At the nearby waterfall, you can cool off in the shade and feel the refreshing spray of water on your skin.
Here, you will find the 10th kyozuka, or sutra mound, of Katsuragi Shugendo (a form of Japanese mountain asceticism),
recognized as a Japan Heritage site, where the “Victorious Buddha,” Daiitoku Myo-o, is enshrined.
The harmony between the tahoto (treasure pagoda), designated an Important Cultural Property,
and the surrounding nature is truly moving.
At the nearby waterfall, you can cool off in the shade and feel the refreshing spray of water on your skin.
Historic Japanese Important Cultural Property
Since the Muromachi period, the vermillion tahoto has stood tall, reaching
straight
toward the sky. Its vibrant red color harmonizes beautifully with the red autumn leaves,
while in summer, it forms a striking contrast with the lush green surroundings. In
winter, the entire area is blanketed in snow, and the sight of the red tahoto
standing
gracefully against the white landscape is truly captivating.
The Buddha of Victory...!?
The Buddha Daiitoku Myo-o, depicted with six arms and six heads, is enshrined
here.
Legend has it that this powerful figure emerged riding a cow from the nearby Third
Waterfall. Known as the “Buddha of Victory,” this majestic deity is ideal for
those
seeking blessings for success in significant moments, such as exams and competitions.
Interview with the Head Priest
How should visitors enjoy
Daiitokuji?
As you pass through the gate, the first thing you’ll see is a row of charming
Jizo statues (guardian deities in Japanese Buddhism).
From the temple grounds, you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains, the treasure pagoda, and even the waterfall up the path.
As a mountain temple, it offers a peaceful escape with the changing colors of nature across the seasons—a truly calming and healing place.
From the temple grounds, you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains, the treasure pagoda, and even the waterfall up the path.
As a mountain temple, it offers a peaceful escape with the changing colors of nature across the seasons—a truly calming and healing place.
Do you often face challenges?
Maintenance is truly a challenge.
We work hard to repair and protect important cultural assets,
such as the treasure pagoda and the temple hall.
I’d be delighted if visitors could not only enjoy the autumn leaves
but also take the time to remove their shoes and step into the main hall.
We work hard to repair and protect important cultural assets,
such as the treasure pagoda and the temple hall.
I’d be delighted if visitors could not only enjoy the autumn leaves
but also take the time to remove their shoes and step into the main hall.
Message to visitors!
Here, you’ll find the beauty of “nothingness,”
a calmness unlike the urban hustle and bustle.
We hope you’ll take a break to unwind
in this peaceful natural setting.
We warmly welcome you to visit and meet the
“Victorious Buddha,” Daiitoku Myo-o.
a calmness unlike the urban hustle and bustle.
We hope you’ll take a break to unwind
in this peaceful natural setting.
We warmly welcome you to visit and meet the
“Victorious Buddha,” Daiitoku Myo-o.
Daiitokuji Temple
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1178-1 Osawa-cho, Kishiwada-shi, Osaka |
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9:00 am–4:00 pm Visitors are welcome to worship at any time during these hours. |
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Open all year round |
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Not available |
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Not applicable |
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Not applicable (Admission is free) |
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Free |
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Instagram: ＠daiitokuji_ushitaki |
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Car Park: Not available except for paid parking during the autumn season.