Negoroji Temple - Shingi Shingon Sect Headquarters

Negoro-ji Temple, the head temple of Shingi Shingon Buddhism, is a Buddhist temple located in Iwade City, Wakayama Prefecture. The precincts are a National Historic Site, and the "Daito" (Great Pagoda) is designated a National Treasure. The temple is also famous for its many rare historic structures, including six buildings—such as the "Daishido," "Dai-denpodo," and "Komyo Shingon-den"—that are designated Important Cultural Properties. The temple flourished from the Muromachi to the Sengoku period, and at its peak it is said to have held 720,000 koku of temple lands and had over 2,700 halls and structures. In 1585 (Tensho 13), during Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s Kishu campaign, many buildings were burned down; however, key central structures such as the principal image and the Daito survived and have been handed down to the present day. Major buildings were later restored under the patronage of the Kishu Tokugawa family. In spring it is a popular cherry blossom spot, and in autumn it is known for colorful foliage, drawing many visitors through the seasons. Access: If using JR, get off at "Izumisunagawa" Station, then take a Wakayama Bus (Naga / Kindai University route) bound for Iwade and get off at "Negoro-ji"—it’s right there. If using Nankai Railway, get off at "Tarui," then take the same Wakayama Bus route and get off at "Negoro-ji."