The History of Kamuro Daishi
Founded by Priest Sonkai Shonin
Kamuro Daishi was founded in March 1910 through the vision and dedication of its founder, Sonkai Shonin.
Sonkai Shonin was born on March 26, 1892, into a devout farming family at the site of what is now the former main hall, known today as Jinseido Hall. From an early age, he had a deep faith in Buddhism and other forms of Japanese spirituality. He particularly revered Kobo Daishi, also known as Kukai, the influential Buddhist monk who established the Shingon school of esoteric Buddhism in Japan.
Driven by a strong desire to help people in need, Sonkai Shonin devoted himself to religious study and training. In 1910, he began his full-scale work of spiritual service and established Kamuro Daishi, enshrining Kobo Daishi as the principal object of worship.
He later developed the temple’s distinctive water blessing ritual, which became an important source of spiritual support for many people. Sonkai Shonin continued serving the community for more than 60 years until his death at the age of 90 on July 7, 1981.
The Temple’s Buddhist Faith
Kobo Daishi as the Principal Deity
The principal object of worship at Kamuro Daishi is Kobo Daishi (Kukai). The temple also enshrines Mahavairocana Buddha (Dainichi Nyorai) as another important Buddhist figure, with Fudo Myoo serving as a guardian figure beside the principal image.
Kobo Daishi is widely revered in Japan as the monk who introduced and established Shingon Esoteric Buddhism in the country. He is traditionally associated with wisdom, compassion, spiritual guidance, and salvation.
At Kamuro Daishi, the teachings and devotion of Sonkai Shonin continue to be preserved alongside faith in Kobo Daishi. Religious services, prayers, and memorial ceremonies are still held at the temple today.
The Water Blessing Ritual
A Unique Tradition Using Sacred Spring Water
One of the most distinctive features of Kamuro Daishi is its traditional Mizu Kaji water blessing, performed using water from a sacred spring within the temple grounds.
Mizu Kaji is a form of Buddhist prayer and blessing involving pure water. According to temple tradition, Sonkai Shonin developed this unique practice after experiencing what he believed to be the spiritual power of the spring water.
According to the story passed down through the temple, a villager suffering from illness once came to Sonkai Shonin seeking help. At the time, Sonkai Shonin did not know how to treat the illness. He took some of the spring water into his mouth and gently sprayed it toward the sick villager. The person was then said to have gradually recovered.
This event became associated with the origins of the temple’s water blessing tradition, and word of the practice spread among local residents and visitors.
Today, the ritual is performed using a sprayer that releases the sacred water as a fine mist over worshippers. People visit Kamuro Daishi with prayers for recovery from illness, good health, success in examinations, and other personal wishes.
Exploring the Temple Grounds
The Main Hall and Its Panoramic View
The main hall of Kamuro Daishi stands on elevated ground, providing a spectacular panorama of the surrounding countryside. From the temple grounds, visitors can look across Hashimoto City, the Kinokawa River, and the distant Katsuragi Mountains.
The present main hall was built in response to the growing number of worshippers and the aging of the former hall. Construction began in 1983, and the new building was completed in October 1988.
Today, the main hall serves as the central location for Buddhist prayers, ceremonies, and other temple activities. Its elevated setting also makes it an especially rewarding place to pause and appreciate the surrounding landscape.
Jinseido Hall
Jinseido Hall is the former main hall of Kamuro Daishi. It was originally constructed in 1934.
The temple’s early prayer services were held in a much smaller building. As the number of worshippers increased, a larger hall was needed, leading to the construction of the building that later became the former main hall.
As the building aged, renovation work began in 2009. After the restoration was completed in 2010, it was given the name Jinseido. Today, it is valued as a sacred space associated with memorial and ancestral Buddhist practices.
Okunoin and Peace Park
The temple’s Okunoin, or inner sanctuary, was created around the ideals of Sonkai Shonin, particularly his wish for world peace and the good health of all people. Construction began in 1968 and continued for approximately 10 years.
The area is now also known as Peace Park and serves as a peaceful place where visitors can relax and reflect. In spring, beautiful cherry blossoms bloom throughout the grounds, creating an especially scenic atmosphere.
The Okunoin is also home to the mausoleum of Sonkai Shonin, the founder of Kamuro Daishi. Visiting this quiet area offers an opportunity to learn more about the person whose lifelong dedication shaped the temple.
The Teachings of Sonkai Shonin
Five Principles for a Peaceful Life
Sonkai Shonin left behind teachings intended to help people live healthier, more peaceful, and spiritually fulfilling lives. Five of his central principles are still associated with Kamuro Daishi.
Do Not Doubt
Sonkai Shonin taught the importance of approaching faith with an open and sincere heart. Rather than being consumed by doubt, people are encouraged to cultivate trust and face their spiritual beliefs honestly.
World Peace and Family Harmony
A peaceful society and a harmonious family are regarded as foundations of human happiness. This teaching emphasizes compassion, understanding, and peaceful relationships with others.
Respect for Ancestors and Parents
Our lives are connected to those who came before us. Sonkai Shonin encouraged people to remember their ancestors with gratitude and to value their parents. In Japanese Buddhist culture, memorial services and respect for ancestors are important ways of expressing this gratitude.
Eat in Moderation
The principle known as “hara hachibu” encourages people not to overindulge and to live with moderation. The teaching extends beyond food, reminding people not to overwork themselves or push their bodies and minds beyond reasonable limits.
Do Not Become Angry
Anger and conflict can place a burden on both the mind and body. Sonkai Shonin encouraged people to maintain a calm and gentle attitude, choosing smiles and peaceful communication whenever possible.
Access to Kamuro Daishi
Getting There
Address: 938-1 Kamuro, Hashimoto City, Wakayama Prefecture
By train: Get off at Kamuro Station on the Nankai Koya Line and walk for approximately 30 minutes. From Osaka, the journey from Nankai Namba Station takes approximately 60 minutes by train.
By car: The temple is approximately a 15-minute drive from the Hashimoto Interchange on the Keinawa Expressway.
Visitors walking from Kamuro Station will encounter a flight of approximately 101 stone steps along the way. The climb requires a little effort, but the beautiful panoramic view from the main hall makes the journey worthwhile.
A Peaceful Temple of Faith and Nature
Kamuro Daishi is a place where history, Buddhist faith, nature, and a deep desire to help others come together. Its connection with Kobo Daishi, the lifelong dedication of Sonkai Shonin, and the distinctive water blessing tradition give the temple a character unlike many other religious sites in Wakayama.
The peaceful mountain setting provides a welcome contrast to busy urban life, while the panoramic views over Hashimoto and the Kinokawa River offer visitors another reason to linger.
Whether you come to learn about Japanese Buddhism, experience a traditional prayer ritual, enjoy the seasonal scenery, or simply spend a quiet moment surrounded by nature, Kamuro Daishi offers a meaningful and tranquil experience.
For travelers exploring the historic route toward Mount Koya, this serene temple in Kamuro is a rewarding place to discover the spiritual traditions and landscapes of Wakayama.