From a Temple Subcomplex to an Independent Temple
Origins Dating Back to the Heian Period
The history of Juzenritsu-in dates back to 990, during the Heian period. It was originally established as a temple subcomplex, known as Juzen-in, within Kokawadera. It served as a place of Buddhist practice and training.
Centuries later, the temple was revived in 1800 under the direction of Tokugawa Harutomi, the 10th lord of the Kishu domain. At this time, it was reorganized as a temple of the Anraku Ritsuin School of Tendai Buddhism and became an independent temple under the name Juzenritsu-in.
The revival received substantial support from the Kishu domain, and many of the buildings that visitors see today were constructed or renovated during this period. As a result, the temple preserves a remarkable collection of high-quality buildings that showcase the architectural style of late Edo-period Japan.
Elegant Historic Architecture
The Main Hall
The Main Hall is the central building of Juzenritsu-in. Rebuilt in 1829, it is designated as a Wakayama Prefecture Tangible Cultural Property.
The hall features an irimoya-zukuri roof, a traditional Japanese hip-and-gable roof style, covered with traditional clay tiles. Its substantial construction, made primarily from zelkova wood, gives the building an impressive sense of strength and dignity.
The calligraphy on the hall’s plaque is traditionally attributed to Tokugawa Harutomi. This connection with the Kishu lord adds another layer of historical significance to the building.
The Goma Hall
The Goma Hall was constructed in 1818 and is an important part of the temple complex. It was used for goma rituals, a Buddhist fire ceremony in which offerings are placed into a sacred fire as prayers are offered.
The quiet surroundings of the hall retain the solemn atmosphere of a place dedicated to Buddhist practice and religious ceremonies.
The Priest’s Quarters
One of the most remarkable buildings at Juzenritsu-in is the Priest’s Quarters, or Kuri, which is also designated as a Wakayama Prefecture Tangible Cultural Property.
Rebuilt around the middle of the 19th century, the building has a residential appearance but incorporates elements that reflect its high status. These include an elegant special entrance for distinguished guests and formal rooms designed in the traditional shoin-zukuri style.
The building is particularly impressive for its enormous scale, with more than 200 tatami mats throughout its rooms. Its unusual paper-covered ceilings and other distinctive decorative details also make it a valuable example of historic Japanese architecture.
The Nurikami Gate
The Nurikami Gate, also known as the Tsukiji Gate, was rebuilt in 1825. It features an elegant architectural style known as Ryugu-zukuri, which is characterized by a distinctive and visually striking appearance.
A plaque bearing calligraphy attributed to Tokugawa Harutomi is displayed on the gate. Together with the other buildings, it conveys the prestigious character of Juzenritsu-in during the late Edo period.
The Beautiful Senshin Garden
A Garden Designed for Quiet Contemplation
The temple grounds are home to Senshin Garden, a beautiful Japanese garden designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty by Kinokawa City.
The garden is a zashiki-style Japanese garden, designed primarily to be viewed from inside the temple buildings rather than explored on foot. Carefully arranged stones, trees, and plants create a harmonious landscape that changes subtly with the seasons.
Sitting quietly and viewing the garden from the traditional rooms provides an opportunity to experience one of the defining pleasures of Japanese garden culture: appreciating nature in a carefully composed and contemplative setting.
The Historic Juzenritsu-in Japanese Yew
The grounds also feature the Juzenritsu-in Japanese yew, which has been designated as a natural conservation site. The tree has grown over many years and serves as a reminder of the enduring relationship between the temple and the natural environment surrounding it.
A Fascinating Religious Legend
The Discovery of Sacred Bells
Juzenritsu-in is also associated with an intriguing Buddhist legend. It is said to be the place where the monk Kakuho of Todaiji Temple discovered sacred bells buried underground.
The bells were reportedly intended to decorate the buildings and pagoda of Hōtaku-in, a temple that Kakuho would later establish. Stories such as this add a sense of mystery to the temple and suggest the site’s long-standing importance as a place of religious activity.
Visiting Juzenritsu-in
Opening Hours
Visitors can explore Juzenritsu-in and enjoy its historic buildings and peaceful surroundings.
Opening hours: 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Access
Juzenritsu-in can be reached in approximately 20 minutes on foot from JR Kokawa Station. Alternatively, visitors traveling by bus can get off at the “Kokawadera” bus stop on the Wakayama Bus Naga Kii-Kokawa Line, which is about a five-minute walk from the temple.
Explore the Historic Kokawa Area
Combine Your Visit with Nearby Attractions
Juzenritsu-in is located in an area filled with historical and cultural attractions. The most notable nearby site is Kokawadera Temple, the third temple on the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage, one of Japan’s most famous Buddhist pilgrimage routes.
Other attractions in the surrounding area include Seishu-no-Sato, associated with the celebrated Edo-period physician Hanaoka Seishu, and the Former Nade Honjin, a historic lodging facility used by travelers during the Edo period.
Exploring these sites together provides a wonderful opportunity to discover the history, religious traditions, architecture, and culture of Kinokawa City.
A Peaceful Encounter with Japanese Heritage
Juzenritsu-in is a hidden gem for travelers seeking a quieter side of Japanese cultural heritage. Its historic buildings, refined architectural details, beautiful Senshin Garden, and centuries-old Buddhist traditions create an atmosphere that is both elegant and deeply peaceful.
While visiting the famous Kokawadera Temple, be sure to take the time to explore Juzenritsu-in as well. The temple offers a fascinating glimpse into the architectural culture of the late Edo period and provides a tranquil place to appreciate the spiritual and artistic traditions that have shaped this part of Wakayama for more than a thousand years.