Buddhist temple
Kikō-ji
喜光寺（きこうじ）
Nara, Nara Prefecture
A bekkaku honzan (special head temple) of the Hossō school in Sugawara-chō, Nara, a temple that Gyōki Bosatsu opened and where he passed away. Its principal image is a Heian-period seated statue of Amida Nyorai, and in summer many lotuses bloom in the grounds.
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 object of worship: Amida Nyorai (seated statue of Amida Nyorai)
History and things to know
According to temple tradition, it began when Gyōki Bosatsu received a donation of land in Yōrō 5 (721) and built "Sugawara-dera" the following year. It is said that when Emperor Shōmu visited in Tenpyō 20, the principal image emitted light, and from this the temple was granted the name Kikō-ji. The present main hall was rebuilt in Tenbun 13 (1544) after destruction in war.
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)
- 喜光寺「御祭神・御本尊・由緒の公式案内」（2026-10-21 確認）
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