Complete Guide to Kingenji Temple (Shimane Prefecture) | Visit the Spectacular View of the 700-Year-Old Ginkgo Tree and its Reflection
Kingenji Temple, located in Omaki, Okuizumo-cho, Nita-gun, Shimane Prefecture, is a Nichiren Buddhist temple widely known for its giant ginkgo tree, a Shimane Prefecture designated natural monument. This colossal ginkgo tree, standing 33 meters tall and with a trunk circumference of 6 meters, is legendary for being 700 years old. In autumn, its golden foliage captivates visitors. The “inverted ginkgo,” particularly visible when the rice paddies are filled with water, creates a mystical scene as if two worlds exist separated by the water’s surface, a beauty so stunning that it has won the Shimane Prefecture Landscape Award.
History and Origin of Kingenji Temple
Kingenji Temple has a long history as a Nichiren Buddhist temple and has been cherished as a central figure in the local faith of Okuizumo. What makes this temple known throughout Japan is the giant ginkgo tree that stands tall within its grounds.
The Legend of Go and the Origin of the Giant Ginkgo Tree
An intriguing legend surrounds the giant ginkgo tree at Kingenji Temple. Long ago, when Nichizon Shonin, a high-ranking priest of the Nichiren sect, visited Kingenji Temple, he played a game of Go with the then-abbot, with the sect’s ideology at stake. The abbot, having lost the game, placed the Go board in the temple garden, and it is said that a sprout grew from the board. This legend is considered the origin of the current giant ginkgo tree.
This story is not merely a legend; it is an important element that tells the religious background of Kingenji Temple and the history of the region, leaving a deep impression on visitors.
The Giant Ginkgo Tree of Kingenji Temple: A Shimane Prefecture Designated Natural Monument
The greatest attraction at Kingenji Temple is undoubtedly the giant ginkgo tree, designated as a Shimane Prefecture Natural Monument. This massive tree is a representative tourist spot in Okuizumo Town, attracting many worshippers and tourists throughout the year.
Characteristics and Scale of the Giant Ginkgo Tree
The giant ginkgo tree at Kingenji Temple boasts the following overwhelming scale:
- Height: 33 meters
- Trunk Circumference: 6 meters
- Legendary Age: 700 years
- Designation: Shimane Prefecture Designated Natural Monument
Particularly noteworthy are the aerial roots visible beneath the branches. Because these roots resemble breasts, the tree is believed to have miraculous powers for breastfeeding, and has long been revered by mothers raising children. This belief in the “Milk Ginkgo” demonstrates that Kingenji Temple is not merely a tourist attraction, but a sacred tree deeply rooted in the lives of the local people.
Spectacular View During the Autumn Foliage Season
The giant ginkgo tree at Kingenji Temple is at its most beautiful during the autumn foliage season in early November. During this time, the entire 33-meter-tall tree is dyed golden, and its presence is overwhelming. The golden ginkgo against the blue sky is truly a work of art created by nature.
The best time to see the autumn foliage is usually from early to mid-November, although this can vary slightly depending on weather conditions. During this time, many photography enthusiasts and tourists from within and outside the prefecture visit, making the temple grounds bustling with activity.
Inverted Ginkgo Tree | A Mysterious Scene Reflected on the Water’s Surface
An essential aspect of discussing the large ginkgo tree at Kingenji Temple is the phenomenon known as the “inverted ginkgo tree.” This is a special and breathtaking sight that can be seen when the rice paddies in front of the temple are filled with water.
The Charm of the Inverted Ginkgo Tree
The large ginkgo tree reflected on the surface of the rice paddies creates a mystical scene, as if two worlds exist separated by the water’s surface. The sight of the golden ginkgo tree perfectly reflected on the mirror-like water’s surface captivates many people.
The beauty of this inverted ginkgo tree is widely recognized, and it has been awarded the prestigious Shimane Prefecture Landscape Award. It is also known as a top spot for photography, and the fantastical atmosphere is especially enhanced in the early morning and at dusk.
Best Timing for Photography
There are several points to consider when photographing the inverted ginkgo tree:
- Time of Year: Early November, during the peak of the autumn foliage
- Rice Paddy Conditions: When the paddies are filled with water (depending on the local farming schedule)
- Weather: A day with little wind and calm water
- Time of Day: Soft light in the early morning or at dusk
Especially on calm, windless days, the water surface becomes like a mirror, allowing you to capture perfectly symmetrical photographs.
Nighttime Illumination | Golden Glow in the Darkness
The large ginkgo tree at Kingenji Temple is illuminated at night during the autumn foliage season. This illumination creates a completely different, fantastical atmosphere from the daytime, leaving a strong impression on visitors.
The Charm of the Illumination
On autumn nights, the large ginkgo tree, glowing golden and seemingly floating in the darkness, exudes an overwhelming presence. The contrast with the darkness of the night makes the vibrant yellow foliage stand out even more than it does during the day, and its beauty captivates the hearts of those who see it. The sight of the 33-meter-tall giant tree floating against the night sky gives you the feeling of having wandered into another world. You can observe the details of the aerial roots and branches illuminated by the light, enjoying a different expression of the giant ginkgo tree than during the daytime.
Access and Transportation Information
Here’s how to access Kingenji Temple. Since public transportation is limited in Okuizumo Town, access by private car is convenient.
Location
Address: 1060 Omaki, Okuizumo-cho, Nita-gun, Shimane Prefecture
Access by Car
It’s about a 15-minute drive from JR Kisuki Line “Izumo-Mitsunari Station”. From the station, head towards Oni-no-Shitaburi, then south on Prefectural Road 25 (Tamayu-Azumayama Line) towards Omaki. You’ll see the Kingenji Temple’s giant ginkgo tree on your left.
If accessing from the San’in Expressway or Matsue Expressway, the most common route is via National Route 314 to Prefectural Road 25. ### Parking Information
Kingenji Temple has a parking lot. It is usually free, but during the autumn foliage season (early to mid-November), there is a charge of 500 yen. Many tourists visit during this period, so we recommend visiting early in the day.
During the peak of the autumn foliage season, especially on weekends and holidays, congestion is expected. Visiting early in the morning or on weekdays is recommended for a more relaxed viewing experience.
Access by Public Transportation
The nearest station is Izumo-Mitsunari Station on the JR Kisuki Line, but it is approximately 7 kilometers from the station to Kingenji Temple, making walking difficult. Please consider taking a taxi from the station or renting a car.
Rental bicycles and cars are also available for tourists in Okuizumo Town. You can obtain the latest transportation and sightseeing information by contacting the Okuizumo Town Tourism Association in advance.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
When visiting Kingenji Temple, we recommend also visiting other attractive tourist spots in Okuizumo Town.
Oni no Shitaburui (Demon’s Tongue Tremor)
Located about 20 minutes by car from Kingenji Temple, Oni no Shitaburui is a gorge designated as a national scenic spot and natural monument. The landscape, with its series of strangely shaped rocks and boulders formed by erosion from the Omaki River, a tributary of the Hii River, is breathtaking. A walking path is maintained, allowing visitors to enjoy the gorge’s beauty up close.
Itohara Memorial Museum
This memorial museum tells the history of the Itohara family, who prospered from tatara ironmaking, and allows visitors to learn about the history of modern ironmaking in Japan. The beautiful Japanese garden is also a highlight.
Okuizumo Tatara and Sword Museum
This facility introduces the history and technology of tatara ironmaking, which produces tamahagane, the raw material for Japanese swords. Visitors can gain a deep understanding of Okuizumo’s traditional industries.
Hot Spring Facilities
Okuizumo Town has several hot spring facilities where you can relax and unwind after sightseeing. In particular, “Kametake Onsen” and “Sabashiro Onsen” are known as famous hot springs beloved by locals.
How to Enjoy Visiting Kingenji Temple
When visiting Kingenji Temple, there are several ways to enjoy it.
Enjoying the Changing Seasons
While Kingenji Temple’s large ginkgo tree is most famous for its autumn foliage, it displays different expressions in each of the four seasons. From the fresh green of spring, the deep green of summer, to the bare branches and snowscape of winter, visiting in each season allows you to enjoy the various appearances of the large ginkgo tree.
Enjoying Photography
Kingenji Temple’s large ginkgo tree is an excellent subject for photography enthusiasts. Try taking photos of the reflection of the tree, as well as angles looking up at the tree and various compositions from within the temple grounds. The slanted light in the early morning and at dusk offers a particularly dramatic opportunity to capture stunning photographs.
Meditation in Silence
Spending quiet time beneath the 700-year-old ginkgo tree is a precious experience, offering a respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. You can have a time to calm your mind while feeling the vitality emanating from the giant trees.
Receiving a Goshuin (Temple Stamp)
You can receive a Goshuin at Kingenji Temple. As a Nichiren Buddhist temple, the carefully written Goshuin will be a precious memento of your visit. However, the head priest may not always be present, so it is recommended to check in advance if you wish to receive a Goshuin.
Points to Note and Manners When Visiting
When visiting Kingenji Temple, please pay attention to the following points.
Respect for the Temple
Kingenji Temple is both a tourist spot and a place of worship. Please behave quietly on the temple grounds and remember to be considerate of other visitors. Please refrain from loud conversations and noise.
Considerations When Taking Photos
Photography is generally permitted, but please be considerate of other visitors and local residents. Especially during the autumn foliage season, many people visit, so please enjoy taking photos with a spirit of mutual consideration.
Taking photos in the rice paddies is strictly prohibited. These are important rice fields belonging to local farmers, so please be sure to take photos only from the road or designated areas.
Parking Use
During the autumn foliage season, please follow the instructions of the staff when parking in the paid parking lot. Please absolutely avoid parking on the street, as this will inconvenience local residents.
Taking Your Trash Home
There may not be trash cans on the temple grounds or in the surrounding area. Please be sure to take your trash home with you when you visit, and help maintain the beautiful environment.
Culture and History of Okuizumo
Okuizumo Town, where Kingenji Temple is located, has long flourished as a region of tatara ironmaking. The tamahagane steel produced here is known throughout Japan as a raw material for Japanese swords.
The Tradition of Tatara Ironmaking
Okuizumo’s tatara ironmaking is considered the pinnacle of traditional Japanese ironmaking technology. Using high-quality iron sand and abundant charcoal as raw materials, skilled craftsmen have produced tamahagane steel. Even today, the traditional techniques are passed down as “Nihon Token Hozonkai Tatara.”
Land of Myths
Okuizumo is also known as the setting for the legend of Yamata no Orochi. The myth of Susanoo-no-Mikoto slaying Yamata no Orochi is part of the region’s identity, and related historical sites and shrines are scattered throughout the area.
Contact Information
For information on Kingenji Temple and surrounding tourist attractions, please contact the following:
Okuizumo Town Tourism Association
You can inquire by phone or check the latest information on the official tourist guide website. Information on the best time to see the autumn leaves, illumination schedules, and nearby accommodations and restaurants is also available.
The Okuizumo Town official tourist guide website also allows you to download brochures and obtain tourist maps. When planning your trip, gathering information in advance will allow you to enjoy a more fulfilling sightseeing experience.
Summary | The Nature and History of Okuizumo at Kingenji Temple
The large ginkgo tree at Kingenji Temple is a representative tourist spot in Okuizumo Town, Shimane Prefecture, and is a living cultural asset with a long history of 700 years. In early November, during the autumn foliage season, you can enjoy two breathtaking sights simultaneously: the magnificent golden ginkgo tree and its reflection in the rice paddies.
At night, the tree is illuminated, creating a fantastical scene that stands out against the darkness, offering a completely different perspective from the daytime. Furthermore, its aerial roots resemble breasts, leading to a belief in its miraculous powers related to breastfeeding. This long history of reverence from the local people further enhances the value of this great ginkgo tree.
Okuizumo Town is a region where the tradition of iron smelting still thrives. Visiting Kingenji Temple and the surrounding tourist attractions and hot springs will enhance your travel experience.
When visiting Shimane Prefecture, be sure to visit Kingenji Temple’s giant ginkgo tree and experience its overwhelming presence and beauty. It’s a special place where you can feel the grandeur of nature and the history of the region that has been passed down through generations.
