Share this tour
Offered languages
- Japanese
- English
Discover the rich history of Dojoji Temple, a site of deep spiritual significance and home to the captivating legend of Anchin and Kiyohime. This 1.5-hour guided tour offers a unique insight into the temple’s ancient architecture and serene Buddha statues. Witness the traditional E-toki performance, where monks narrate the famous love story through beautifully illustrated scrolls. Experience a connection to Japan's cultural heritage and explore the tranquil grounds that have inspired countless artistic expressions.
- 1.5-hour guided tour of historic Dojoji Temple
- Learn about the legendary tale of Anchin and Kiyohime
- Enjoy a traditional E-toki performance with illustrated scrolls
- Explore the temple's serene surroundings and ancient architecture
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Itinerary
-
1
Standing quietly on the banks of the Hidaka River in central Wakayama, Dojoji Temple is one of Japan’s oldest Buddhist temples, founded over 1,300 years ago—even predating Mount Koya. Revered for its long history and graceful temple architecture, Dojoji has been a spiritual center for generations of monks and pilgrims. The temple is most famous as the setting of the Legend of Anchin and Kiyohime, a tragic love story that gave birth to one of Japan’s most enduring cultural traditions. This tale of devotion, jealousy, and transformation has inspired countless works of Noh, Kabuki, and Bunraku theater. Visitors walking through the temple grounds can admire its ancient halls, serene Buddha statues, and the quiet beauty of a place where faith and legend intertwine. More than just a historic site, Dojoji is a living monument to the emotional depth and artistry of Japan’s spiritual heritage, continuing to captivate those who seek both peace and imagination.
40 minutes • Admission ticket included -
2
Within the temple precincts stands the Dojoji Engi Hall, where visitors can experience an extraordinary tradition known as “E-toki”—the sacred art of picture storytelling. During an E-toki performance, temple monks narrate the legendary tale of Anchin and Kiyohime while gradually unrolling a long illustrated scroll filled with exquisitely painted scenes. Through voice, rhythm, and imagery, the story comes alive before your eyes, blending faith, art, and emotion in a single timeless performance. This unique storytelling ritual has been passed down at Dojoji for centuries, and today, it is the only temple in Japan that continues to preserve this ancient practice. The gentle cadence of the monk’s voice, the flicker of light upon the scroll, and the tragic beauty of the tale create a deeply moving experience that connects visitors to Japan’s medieval culture and its living spiritual artistry.
50 minutes • Admission ticket included
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Your guide to the flawless travel experience
Popular Countries
Company
Get our app
