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.
I originally thought Katsuo-ji Temple was one of those remote attractions deep in the mountains of Japan that takes a long, strenuous journey to reach. But after actually going there, I found it wasn't that difficult at all! Take the Midosuji Line all the way to the last stop, M06 Minoh-kayano, and you can transfer directly to a nonstop bus to Katsuo-ji Temple right outside the station. The ride takes about 21 minutes and is smooth all the way.
The scenery at the temple is beautiful, and practically every corner is photogenic. Almost every attraction along the way has a multicolor stamp postcard you can stamp. This is very family-friendly. Just tell the kids, “You can get another stamp at the next stop,” and they instantly perk up and keep walking, so you don't have to worry about them constantly asking, “How much farther?”
The biggest downside to Katsuo-ji Temple is that the daruma dolls and souvenirs all make you want to buy them. It's way too hard on the wallet.
