Semuiji Temple

This temple was built by Kagemoto Yuasa, a cousin of Myoe Shonin, in the place where Myoe Shonin trained. The temple is considered the second most sacred site of Myoe Shonin after Kozanji Temple (Kyoto City), and Myoe Shonin is enshrined as the founder of the temple. The temple grounds are located halfway up Mt. Shirakami, and one of the highlights of the temple is the gate overlooking Yuasa Bay and the magnificent view from the inner sanctuary. The temple is also known as one of the best cherry blossom viewing spots in Wakayama Prefecture, and around 100 cherry trees, mostly Someiyoshino, bloom in the approach to the shrine, as well as inside the shrine precinct in Spring.