Buddhist temple
Gumyō-ji
弘明寺（ぐみょうじ）
Minami, Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture
A temple in Minami Ward, Yokohama, affectionately known as Gumyōji Kannon and described as the oldest temple in Yokohama. Its principal image, a standing statue of Jūichimen Kanzeon Bosatsu, is an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
English pages are the site’s own translations of its Japanese pages. The sources cited are in Japanese. 日本語で読む
Prayers associated with this place
Principal image: Jūichimen Kanzeon Bosatsu
History and things to know
According to temple tradition, in Tenpyō 9 (737) Gyōki built a hermitage here, and the present principal image is said to be the one he carved in the spirit of ittō sanrai (bowing three times with each cut). Kōbō Daishi is said to have performed the goma fire ritual here in Kōnin 5 (814), and in Kantoku 1 (1044) the priest 光慧 built the main hall. The present main hall was rebuilt in Meiwa 3 (1766).
Introduced by this site, based on materials from the shrine or temple and public bodies.
Related kami and buddhas
Before you visit
Opening hours, access, areas open to visitors, and events can change. Please check the latest guidance from the shrine or temple itself before you go.
Official website of the shrine or temple (may be in Japanese)
Sources (in Japanese)
- 弘明寺「御祭神・御本尊・由緒の公式案内」（2026-10-22 確認）
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