Kawasaki Daishi Heiken-ji
Temple of Protection from Misfortune
Kawasaki Daishi, formally known as Heiken-ji Temple, was founded in 1128 during the Heian period by the priest Sonken. According to temple legend, a fisherman named Hirama Kanenori dreamed that a wooden statue of Kobo Daishi (founder of Shingon Buddhism) thrown into the sea 200 years earlier could be recovered. Following the dream's instructions, Hirama retrieved the statue and Sonken established a temple to enshrine it. The temple became one of the three major temples in the Kanto region dedicated to Kobo Daishi, alongside Naritasan and Takaosan.
During the Edo period (1603-1867), Kawasaki Daishi gained immense popularity for yakuyoke prayers - rituals to ward off misfortune during yakudoshi (unlucky years determined by age and gender in Japanese tradition). Travelers on the Tokaido road between Edo and Kyoto often detoured to the temple for protection. The temple's reputation spread throughout Japan as ordinary people and feudal lords alike sought blessings. The Meiji Restoration brought challenges as anti-Buddhist policies threatened temples nationwide, but Kawasaki Daishi's deep popular devotion ensured survival.
Today, Kawasaki Daishi ranks among Japan's most visited temples, attracting approximately 10 million visitors annually and over 3 million during the three-day New Year hatsumode (first shrine visit) period - one of the highest New Year counts in Japan. The temple complex features the Main Hall rebuilt in 1964, an octagonal five-story pagoda completed in 1984, and extensive grounds with multiple structures. The approach street (Nakamise-dori) lined with traditional shops selling daruma dolls, amulets, and food has preserved Showa-era atmosphere. Kawasaki Daishi continues its 900-year tradition of yakuyoke blessings while serving as a living center of Shingon Buddhist practice.
Key Highlights
- Founded 1128, over 890 years of history
- One of Kanto's three great Daishi temples
- Famous yakuyoke rituals to prevent bad luck
- 3+ million New Year visitors (hatsumode)
- Traditional Nakamise shopping street approach
- Important Shingon Buddhism center
Access Information
Location
4-48 Daishi-machi, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa 210-0816, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Kawasaki-Daishi Station (Keikyu Daishi Line) - 10 min walk
- • Kawasaki Station (JR Tokaido Line, Keikyu Main Line) - transfer to Daishi Line
Opening Hours
Temple grounds: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM (5:30 PM in winter); Prayer hall: 5:30 AM - 6:00 PM; Nakamise shops: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM (many close Wednesdays); Extended hours during New Year period
Admission Fee
Free temple entry; Yakuyoke prayer: ¥5,000-10,000 depending on service; Amulets and charms: ¥500-2,000; Omamori protective charms: ¥300-1,000
How to Get There
From Tokyo Station
Take JR Tokaido Line to Kawasaki Station (20 minutes, ¥290). Transfer to Keikyu Daishi Line to Kawasaki-Daishi Station (5 minutes, ¥150). Exit and walk 10 minutes through Nakamise shopping street to temple. Total 35 minutes including walking.
30 minutes
From Yokohama
Take JR Tokaido Line to Kawasaki Station (8 minutes, ¥170), transfer to Keikyu Daishi Line to Kawasaki-Daishi Station (5 minutes, ¥150), then 10-minute walk. Alternatively, take Keikyu Main Line to Keikyu Kawasaki, transfer to Daishi Line (same cost, similar time).
20 minutes
From Haneda Airport
Take Keikyu Airport Line to Keikyu Kawasaki Station (13 minutes, ¥310), transfer to Keikyu Daishi Line to Kawasaki-Daishi Station (5 minutes, ¥150), then 10-minute walk. Convenient stop between airport and Tokyo. Total 30 minutes.
25 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Yakuyoke Blessing Ceremony
The temple's primary purpose is yakuyoke - prayers to ward off misfortune during unlucky years (yakudoshi). Men's unlucky ages: 25, 42 (most critical), 61; Women's: 19, 33 (most critical), 37. Many Japanese visit during yakudoshi years for protection. The blessing ceremony (¥5,000-10,000) involves monks chanting sutras while you kneel in the prayer hall holding wooden tablets with your name and age. Sessions run continuously throughout the day - arrive, purchase prayer ticket at office, wait for next ceremony (15-30 minutes). Reservation not required except New Year period.
New Year Hatsumode
Kawasaki Daishi ranks among Japan's top hatsumode destinations with 3 million visitors January 1-3. The temple stays open 24 hours during New Year period with extended services. Expect enormous crowds - 2-3 hour waits just to approach the main hall. If visiting for New Year: arrive very early morning (4-6 AM) or late night to avoid worst crowds. Special stalls sell amazake (sweet sake), food, and lucky charms. The atmosphere is festive and energetic. For non-crowded visits, avoid December 31-January 7 entirely.
Nakamise Shopping Street
The 200-meter approach street (Nakamise-dori) preserves traditional temple town atmosphere with shops selling daruma dolls, sembei crackers, traditional sweets, and religious items. Matsuyazou sells famous kuzumochi (rice starch sweets). Multiple shops offer hand-grilled sembei. Daruma dolls (symbols of perseverance) available in many sizes (¥500-5,000). Amulets, protective charms (omamori), and prayer beads sold at temple shops. Many stores close Wednesdays. Cash preferred. Budget ¥1,000-3,000 for souvenirs and snacks. The street represents classic Showa-era temple approach.
Temple Architecture
The Main Hall (rebuilt 1964) features traditional Buddhist architecture with elaborate roof decorations. The octagonal five-story pagoda (1984) rises 29 meters with distinctive design. Fudo-do Hall houses fierce Fudo Myoo deity. The Great Mountain Gate (Daisanmon) welcomes visitors with impressive scale. Photography permitted in grounds but avoid disturbing worshippers. Interior photography of main hall prohibited during ceremonies. The temple's architecture blends traditional and modern reconstruction - while not ancient structures, the scale and atmosphere remain impressive. Best photos early morning or late afternoon with softer light.
Local Food Specialties
The temple area specializes in traditional Japanese sweets and street food. Kuzumochi (rice starch mochi with black syrup and kinako powder) is the signature local sweet. Freshly grilled sembei crackers sold along Nakamise. Daifuku mochi, dorayaki, and seasonal wagashi available at multiple shops. Simple restaurants near the station serve udon, soba, and rice bowls. Budget ¥500-1,000 for snacks, ¥800-1,500 for meals. Matsuya Sohonten (since 1935) serves excellent kuzumochi. Most shops offer free samples - try before buying. Avoid peak meal hours (12-1 PM) at small restaurants.
Best Times to Visit
Weekday mornings (8-11 AM) offer peaceful atmosphere with fewer crowds. Weekends see steady visitors but manageable outside New Year period. Major festivals: New Year (Jan 1-3, extremely crowded), Setsubun (early February, bean throwing), Kanamara Matsuri at nearby shrine (early April, controversial fertility festival). Monthly fair (21st of each month) brings extra vendors and crowds. Avoid first week of January unless experiencing hatsumode is your goal. Summer months (July-August) are hot - visit early morning. Cherry blossom season (late March-early April) adds beauty to temple grounds.
Temple Etiquette
Proper temple visiting: Bow at entrance gate, cleanse hands and mouth at purification fountain (temizuya), approach main hall, make small offering (¥5-100 coins), ring bell if present, offer brief prayer with palms together, bow twice. Remove hats inside buildings. Photography acceptable in grounds but not during ceremonies. Speak quietly and dress modestly. If receiving yakuyoke blessing, follow staff instructions - you'll kneel on cushions during ceremony, bow when instructed. The temple welcomes visitors of all backgrounds. English pamphlets available at information office. Respectful observation of practices is appreciated.
Combining with Kawasaki Area
Kawasaki Daishi can be combined with other Kawasaki attractions for half-day trip. Lazona Kawasaki shopping complex (at Kawasaki Station) offers dining and shopping. Toshiba Science Museum (near station, free entry) for technology exhibits. Kawasaki Warehouse arcade (closed 2019, unfortunately). The temple visit itself takes 1-2 hours including Nakamise shopping. Easily accessible between Tokyo and Yokohama, making it a convenient stop. Haneda Airport proximity allows visiting during arrival/departure day. Return to Tokyo via Kawasaki Station with frequent trains to major destinations.
FAQ
What is yakuyoke and why is Kawasaki Daishi famous for it?
Yakuyoke refers to prayers and rituals to ward off misfortune during yakudoshi (unlucky years based on age and gender in Japanese tradition). Men's critical unlucky ages are 25, 42, and 61; women's are 19, 33, and 37. Kawasaki Daishi is one of Japan's most important temples for yakuyoke blessings, attracting millions annually seeking protection during these vulnerable years.
How long should I spend at Kawasaki Daishi?
Plan 1-2 hours for a thorough visit including the main temple grounds, Nakamise shopping street, and exploring the various halls. If you participate in a yakuyoke blessing ceremony, add an additional 30-45 minutes. Combined with shopping and snacks on Nakamise-dori, allow 2-3 hours total for a relaxed experience.
How do I participate in a yakuyoke blessing ceremony?
Visit the temple office near the main hall and purchase a prayer ticket (5,000-10,000 depending on service level). You'll receive a wooden tablet to fill with your name and age. Wait for the next ceremony session (runs continuously, typically 15-30 minute waits). During the 20-minute ceremony, monks chant sutras while you kneel holding your tablet. No reservation needed except during New Year period.
When is the best time to visit to avoid crowds?
Weekday mornings (8-11 AM) offer the most peaceful atmosphere. Avoid the first week of January when over 3 million New Year visitors arrive - waits can reach 2-3 hours just to approach the main hall. Monthly fairs on the 21st bring extra crowds. Weekends see steady visitors but remain manageable outside peak periods.
How do I get to Kawasaki Daishi from Tokyo?
Take the JR Tokaido Line from Tokyo Station to Kawasaki Station (20 minutes, 290), transfer to Keikyu Daishi Line to Kawasaki-Daishi Station (5 minutes, 150), then walk 10 minutes through Nakamise shopping street. Total journey about 35 minutes. The temple is also easily accessible from Haneda Airport (30 minutes) and Yokohama (20 minutes).
What can I buy on Nakamise shopping street?
The 200-meter approach street sells traditional temple town goods: daruma dolls (symbols of perseverance, 500-5,000), freshly grilled sembei crackers, kuzumochi rice starch sweets (local specialty), traditional wagashi, prayer beads, protective charms (omamori), and religious items. Many shops offer free samples. Budget 1,000-3,000 for souvenirs and snacks. Most stores close Wednesdays.
Is Kawasaki Daishi crowded during New Year?
Extremely crowded - over 3 million visitors during January 1-3, making it one of Japan's top hatsumode (first shrine visit) destinations. The temple operates 24 hours during New Year with 2-3 hour waits to reach the main hall. If experiencing hatsumode atmosphere is your goal, arrive very early morning (4-6 AM) or late night. For peaceful visits, completely avoid December 31-January 7.
What food specialties should I try?
Kuzumochi (rice starch mochi with black syrup and kinako powder) is the signature local sweet - try Matsuya Sohonten since 1935. Freshly grilled sembei crackers sold along Nakamise are delicious. Also available: dorayaki, daifuku mochi, and seasonal wagashi. Simple restaurants near the station serve udon, soba, and rice bowls. Budget 500-1,000 for snacks, 800-1,500 for meals.
What is the temple's history?
Founded in 1128 during the Heian period when a fisherman recovered a wooden statue of Kobo Daishi (founder of Shingon Buddhism) from the sea following a prophetic dream. The temple became one of the three major temples in Kanto dedicated to Kobo Daishi. It gained immense popularity during the Edo period for yakuyoke prayers and has maintained this spiritual role for nearly 900 years.
Do I need to make a reservation to visit?
No reservations needed for general temple visits or yakuyoke blessings during normal periods - just arrive during operating hours. However, during New Year (January 1-3), formal prayer ceremonies may require advance reservation. Large groups should contact the temple office beforehand. Individual visitors can participate in blessing ceremonies without reservation year-round.
What temple architecture can I see?
The Main Hall (rebuilt 1964) features traditional Buddhist architecture with elaborate decorations. The distinctive octagonal five-story pagoda (1984) rises 29 meters. Fudo-do Hall houses the fierce Fudo Myoo deity. The impressive Great Mountain Gate (Daisanmon) welcomes visitors. While not ancient structures, the scale and atmosphere remain impressive, blending traditional and modern reconstruction.
What proper etiquette should I follow?
Bow at the entrance gate, cleanse hands and mouth at the purification fountain, approach the main hall and make a small offering (5-100 coins), ring the bell if present, offer a brief prayer with palms together, and bow twice. Remove hats inside buildings. Photography acceptable in grounds but not during ceremonies. Speak quietly and dress modestly. The temple welcomes all visitors respectfully.
Can I get amulets and charms at the temple?
Yes, temple shops sell various omamori (protective charms, 300-1,000), ema (wooden prayer plaques), goshuin (temple stamps for collectors), and religious items. Yakuyoke-specific charms are popular for protection during unlucky years. Daruma dolls available in many sizes symbolize perseverance. These items support temple maintenance and make meaningful souvenirs.
Is the temple suitable for children?
Yes, families are welcome. The temple grounds are open and safe for children, though the spiritual focus may not engage very young ones. The Nakamise shopping street with its traditional atmosphere and snack shops interests children. Strollers work on main paths. Expect respectful behavior during ceremonies. The visit provides cultural education about Japanese Buddhism and traditions.
What makes this temple different from shrines?
Kawasaki Daishi is a Buddhist temple (dedicated to Kobo Daishi, founder of Shingon Buddhism), not a Shinto shrine. Temples feature Buddhist architecture with pagodas, statues of Buddhist deities, and incense offerings. The prayer style differs - temples involve palms together in prayer rather than clapping. Temples focus on enlightenment and protection from suffering, while shrines honor kami (Shinto deities).
Are there special festivals or events?
Major events include New Year hatsumode (January 1-3, extremely crowded), Setsubun bean throwing (early February), monthly fairs on the 21st with extra vendors, and various Buddhist ceremonies throughout the year. The temple hosts over 1,500 ceremonies annually, though most are not open to general public observation. Check the temple website for special event dates.
Is there English information available?
Limited English signage and pamphlets available at the information office. Most information is in Japanese. However, the visual aspects of temple architecture, ceremonies, and shopping street are accessible regardless of language. The spiritual atmosphere and cultural experience transcend language barriers. Translation apps can help with key information boards.
Can I combine this with other Kawasaki attractions?
Yes, combine with Lazona Kawasaki shopping complex at Kawasaki Station for dining and shopping. The free Toshiba Science Museum near the station offers technology exhibits. The temple visit (1-2 hours) plus Kawasaki Station area makes a nice half-day trip. The temple's location between Tokyo and Yokohama, plus proximity to Haneda Airport, makes it a convenient stop during travel days.
What seasonal considerations should I know?
The temple is open year-round with grounds accessible 6 AM-6 PM (5:30 PM in winter). Summer (July-August) can be hot - visit early morning. Winter is cold but manageable. Cherry blossom season (late March-early April) adds beauty. New Year period (late December-early January) brings massive crowds and extended hours. Most Nakamise shops close Wednesdays - avoid if shopping is important.
Why should I visit Kawasaki Daishi?
Experience one of Japan's most important Buddhist temples with nearly 900 years of history, witness authentic yakuyoke blessing ceremonies, explore a traditional Showa-era temple approach street, and enjoy genuine local atmosphere away from typical tourist circuits. The temple offers spiritual insight into Japanese Buddhist practices and the cultural importance of protection from misfortune in Japanese society.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Engaku-ji Temple
One of Kamakura's most important Zen temples, founded in 1282, featuring National Treasure buildings, tranquil Zen gardens, and serving as the second-ranked of Kamakura's Five Great Zen Temples.
Enoshima Aquarium
A modern seaside aquarium featuring massive ocean tanks, jellyfish displays, dolphin and sea lion shows, and stunning views of Mount Fuji across Sagami Bay.
Enoshima Island
A small island resort connected by bridge to the mainland, offering beaches, shrines, caves, an observation tower, and stunning views of Mt. Fuji across Sagami Bay.
Hakone Onsen
A renowned hot spring resort area nestled in the mountains southwest of Tokyo, offering stunning views of Mount Fuji, volcanic valleys, and traditional Japanese inns.
Great Buddha of Kamakura
A monumental bronze Buddha statue standing 13.35 meters tall, sitting peacefully in the open air at Kotoku-in Temple for over 750 years, one of Japan's most iconic images.
Hasedera Temple (Kamakura)
A scenic hillside temple famous for its massive wooden Kannon statue, thousands of jizo statues, and seasonal flowers with ocean views over Kamakura's coastline.
Sankeien Garden
A stunning 175,000 square meter traditional Japanese garden featuring historic buildings relocated from across Japan, seasonal flowers, ponds, and peaceful walking paths away from Yokohama's urban center.
Yokohama Chinatown
Japan's largest Chinatown with over 600 shops and restaurants packed into vibrant streets, featuring authentic Chinese cuisine, colorful gates, temples, and festivals year-round.