Honmyo-ji Temple
temple
Honmyo-ji Temple
本妙寺
Overview
Hilltop temple and mausoleum of Kato Kiyomasa with panoramic city views.
Honmyoji Temple was built to honor Kato Kiyomasa, the powerful lord who constructed Kumamoto Castle. His grave sits at the top of the Munatsuki Gangi staircase, a steep climb flanked by hundreds of stone lanterns. The name translates roughly to 'feel it in your chest steps,' and after 176 of them, you will. The niomon gate at the entrance was built in 1920 from concrete, a novelty material at the time. The current main hall dates from 1884, rebuilt after the Satsuma Rebellion destroyed the original.
Local tips
The 176-step stone stairway is lined with lanterns that are lit during the summer festival in July. A giant statue of Kato Kiyomasa stands at the top.
Practical info
- Japanese name
- 本妙寺
- Nearest station
- Nobeoka Station (40 min drive)
- Payment
- Cash only
- Reservations
- not required
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