Seiganto-ji
A centuries-old Buddhist temple featuring a vibrant red pagoda set against Japan's tallest waterfall, Nachi Falls.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, fewer crowds
Seiganto-ji
Best Time
Clear skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A centuries-old Buddhist temple featuring a vibrant red pagoda set against Japan's tallest waterfall, Nachi Falls.
"The most iconic view in Japan, rivaling Mt. Fuji and Kyoto's pagoda."
📸 Iconic Photo Spot
Find the viewpoint for the classic pagoda & waterfall shot. Worth the walk!
🚗 Parking Options
Paid parking available at the top (¥800) or lower down (¥500) with a short climb.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sanjuno-to Pagoda
Seiganto-ji Temple grounds
A vibrant three-story red pagoda, a breathtaking sight against the majestic Nachi Falls.
Nachi Falls
Adjacent to Seiganto-ji Temple
Japan's tallest waterfall, providing a dramatic natural backdrop to the temple and pagoda.
Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine
Adjacent to Seiganto-ji Temple
A sacred Shinto shrine, offering a harmonious blend of Buddhist and Shinto traditions.
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Planning Your Visit
Pagoda Renovation Status
Best Viewing Spot
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Iconic Photo Spot
Find the viewpoint for the classic pagoda & waterfall shot. Worth the walk! 
🚗 Parking Options
Paid parking available at the top (¥800) or lower down (¥500) with a short climb.
🚶♀️ Explore the Area
Don't miss the nearby Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine.
🚫 Inside Temple Rules
Entry is free, but photography inside the temple is prohibited.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Iconic Photo Spot
Find the viewpoint for the classic pagoda & waterfall shot. Worth the walk!
🚗 Parking Options
Paid parking available at the top (¥800) or lower down (¥500) with a short climb.
🚶♀️ Explore the Area
Don't miss the nearby Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine.
🚫 Inside Temple Rules
Entry is free, but photography inside the temple is prohibited.
☔️ Waterfall Flow Varies
Rainy days can increase waterfall volume, making it even more dramatic.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the stunning architectural beauty of Seiganto-ji's pagoda, especially its dramatic setting against the majestic Nachi Falls. The temple's historical significance and its harmonious blend with the sacred Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine are frequently praised. While some have encountered pagoda renovations, the overall experience is consistently described as breathtaking and a must-visit in Japan.
"Extreme architectural structure and surroundings made this a must visit spot in Japan. It’s a Centuries-old Buddhist temple with a 3-story red pagoda set against the backdrop of the Nachi Falls. You can witness of mesmerizing view of Nachi fall from here.
I went there in November last year & it was in under instruction. I couldn’t enter there but outside of the temple was also outstanding."
吉岡
"After 5-days hike on the Kumano trail and reaching this last destination was rewarding. Seiganto-ji was nestle next to the hillside with plenty of greeneries surrounding it and the breathtaking Nachi waterfall at the back drop with clear blue skies. It is a view you would not miss.
Plenty to see around the area if your legs can still walk.
The serene Nachi Taisha Grand shrine is just a stone throw away with its own beauty."
Nikki L
"Beautiful pagoda with the view of the stunning Nachi falls. There’s a possibility to arrive here directly via car (parking at the top is 800 yen in October 25, and 500 yen a little bit bellow and you can climb by foot)"
Asher Chazan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Seiganto-ji Temple is accessible via public transport, often combined with a visit to Nachi Falls and Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine. From Kii-Katsuura Station, you can take a bus towards Kii-Katsuura Onsen or Nachisan. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes.
Yes, you can drive to Seiganto-ji. There are paid parking lots available near the temple, with options at the top (around 800 yen) and slightly lower down (around 500 yen), requiring a short walk.
Seiganto-ji is a significant stop on the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, particularly the Daimonzaka slope. Many pilgrims arrive at the temple after their hike.
Seiganto-ji Temple and Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine are located very close to each other, often described as being 'a stone's throw away.' You can easily walk between them.
To reach Seiganto-ji from Osaka, you would typically take a Shinkansen to Shin-Osaka or Kyoto, then transfer to a limited express train towards Kii-Katsuura Station. From there, you'd take a local bus. The entire journey can take several hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the grounds of Seiganto-ji Temple is generally free. However, there might be fees for specific areas or facilities within the temple complex.
The temple grounds are typically open from early morning until late afternoon. Specific hours can vary, so it's advisable to check for the most current information closer to your visit.
While the Sanjuno-to Pagoda is undergoing repainting until late December 2024, the temple grounds and surrounding areas are still accessible and offer beautiful views.
No special tickets or passes are generally required for general access to Seiganto-ji Temple. It's a free-to-enter site for visitors to explore the grounds.
For the most accurate and current information regarding access, hours, and any ongoing renovations, it's best to consult the official Seiganto-ji Temple website or local tourism information centers.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic view is from a designated viewpoint across from the pagoda, offering a clear frame of the Sanjuno-to Pagoda with Nachi Falls behind it. This is the shot you see in most travel guides.
Photography is generally allowed on the temple grounds, but it's strictly prohibited inside the temple buildings themselves. Be respectful of the sacred nature of the site.
Late afternoon often provides beautiful lighting, with the sun casting a warm glow on the pagoda. However, mornings can offer fewer crowds and softer light.
Drone usage is typically restricted at religious sites and natural landmarks to ensure safety and preserve the atmosphere. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the grandeur of the pagoda and waterfall together. A telephoto lens can be good for details of the shrine.
🎫 🏞️ Nature & Surroundings
Nachi Falls is Japan's tallest waterfall, with a dramatic drop of approximately 133 meters (436 feet).
The temple is nestled amidst lush greenery, with the impressive Nachi Falls as its stunning backdrop. The area is known for its natural beauty and serene atmosphere.
Yes, Seiganto-ji is a key point on the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, which offers various hiking trails. The Daimonzaka slope is a popular and scenic approach to the temple.
The region experiences distinct seasons. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are cooler. Rainfall is common, which can enhance the power of Nachi Falls.
Absolutely. The combination of the ancient temple, the towering pagoda, and the magnificent Nachi Falls makes it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Exploring the adjacent Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine also provides a glimpse into Japanese culture. The area around the temple offers space to move, and the impressive scale of the waterfall can be awe-inspiring for children. Pack comfortable shoes for walking and be prepared for potentially humid weather during warmer months.
🚶♀️ Pilgrims and Hikers
The proximity to Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine allows pilgrims to experience both Buddhist and Shinto traditions in one location. The Daimonzaka slope, a beautifully preserved ancient path, is a popular approach to the temple complex, adding to the authentic pilgrimage experience.
📸 Photographers
The best light can often be found in the late afternoon, but early mornings offer fewer crowds. Be mindful of the no-photography rule inside the temple buildings. Beyond the main viewpoint, explore the surrounding grounds for different perspectives of the pagoda and the natural landscape. The interplay of light and shadow, especially with the mist from the waterfall, can create dramatic and atmospheric shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Pagoda and Waterfall
+2This unique juxtaposition of man-made architecture and natural wonder creates a profoundly spiritual and aesthetically pleasing experience. The sound of the rushing water and the sight of the ancient structure evoke a sense of timelessness. While the pagoda is currently undergoing repainting until late December 2024, the surrounding views and the temple's atmosphere remain captivating.
Visitors often describe the view as 'mesmerizing' and 'breathtaking,' highlighting it as a must-see destination. The best vantage point for this iconic shot is from a specific overlook, allowing you to capture the full grandeur of the scene.
A Blend of Buddhism and Shintoism
The area is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes, which have been trodden by pilgrims for over a thousand years. This spiritual significance adds another layer to the experience, connecting visitors to a long tradition of devotion and journey. The coexistence of these two major religious traditions in such close proximity is a testament to Japan's rich cultural history.
This harmonious integration of different faiths within a single, awe-inspiring natural setting makes Seiganto-ji and its surroundings a deeply meaningful destination for those interested in Japanese spirituality and history.
Visiting Seiganto-ji: Practicalities and Tips
While entry to the temple grounds is free, visitors are reminded that photography is not permitted inside the temple buildings. This rule helps maintain the sanctity and tranquility of the inner sanctum.
It's worth noting that the volume of Nachi Falls can increase significantly after heavy rain, creating an even more dramatic spectacle. Planning your visit to coincide with favorable weather can enhance the experience, though the beauty of the site is undeniable in all conditions.
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