Katsuo-ji Temple
Surrounded by a national park in the surrounding area, Katsuo-ji Temple in Minoh is an ancient temple with a history of about 1,300 years, founded in the Nara period (710-794). Within the temple's vast grounds, which cover an area of about 80,000 square meters, are the main hall and temple gate, which were rebuilt by Toyotomi Hideyori, and Sanpoukoujin Shrine, which is believed to be the first Arakami shrine in Japan.
So many people have posted about Katsuo-ji Temple. I was pretty lucky to visit on a rainy day. I'd seen tons of photos online of the temple on sunny days, but none in the rain. I originally planned to head back down after two hours, but ended up spending four hours there. It's so photogenic, and the souvenir shop has lots of tempting things to buy. If you get the chance, go on a rainy day (though that's way too hard to plan). Definitely buy a daruma—don't hesitate, because it's really far to go back again.



