Basic information

Kanshinji Temple is said to have been founded in the late Asuka period, and was established as a training center for the Shingon sect by Kukai. In the Middle Ages, the temple had close ties with the Imperial Court and samurai families such as Lord Kusunoki Masashige, and many related buildings remain. Due to this historical background, numerous national treasures and important cultural properties remain, and the temple is a constituent cultural property of the Japan Heritage site "A Town Where You Can Experience the Middle Ages." It is also one of the flower temples in the Kansai region, and is known for its beautiful plum blossoms and autumn leaves.
The only temple in Japan that enshrines the Big Dipper
The temple enshrines the Big Dipper, which is said to have been enshrined by Kobo Daishi Kukai. The temple is the only one in Japan to house a three-dimensional representation of the Seven Stars Nyoirin Mandala, and is home to the National Treasure Nyoirin Kannon Bodhisattva statue in the main hall, the Hojizuka mound that controls the Big Dipper, and Kariteimoten to the south.
The Setsubun Star Festival is held every year on February 3rd, attracting many visitors.
■The family temple of Masashige Kusunoki
Chuin, a sub-temple of Kanshinji Temple, is the family temple of Kusunoki Masashige. During his childhood, when he was called Tamonmaru, he studied Buddhism under Ryukakubo of Kanshinji Temple, and is said to have commuted from the Kanshinji Academy to the residence of military strategist Oe Tokichika in Kagata to further his studies in military tactics.
Because of this deep connection with Kanshinji Temple, the main temple is the family temple of the Kusunoki clan, including Kusunoki Masashige.
■ Opening of the Doors and Festival
・Opening of the Secret Buddha Statue April 17th and 18th
・Kusunoki Festival May 25th