Takarazuka
Heirin-ji Temple


Cultural Property of Takarazuka City
Kamakura Period

Heirin-ji Temple, also called "Mukosan," is a temple of the Shingon sect, which is said to have been erected approximately 1400 years ago by Prince Shotoku following an order by the Emperor Yomei. This temple is known as the second site in the pilgrimage to 33 sacred places dedicated to the Kannon in Settsu which is believed to have been commenced by Emperor Kazan who later retired to become a monk, and also known as the 73th site of a pilgrimage of 88 sacred places in Settsu. There are four small buildings in the temple precincts.
The temple is dedicated to the standing image of the eleven-faced Kannon. The wooden seated image of the Shaka-nyorai, the supreme Buddha, in this temple was designated as a Cultural Property of Takarazuka City. The seated image of the Yakushi-Nyorai is also famous. The temple was in decline for some period after its establishment. In the Heian Period (794-1185), however, it was revived by a nun called "Nyoichini" and it is said that it had more than 30 sub-temples at the height of its prosperity. Although the Heirin-ji Temple was also burnt down during war, it was reconstructed afterwards.
In the Edo Period(1600-1868), it became famous and was considered one of the seven most important temples in Muko.
In the temple precincts is a granite "Roban," or a thick square base originally placed on the top of the hogyo-zukuri (pyramidal) roof. It is supposed to have been made in the Kamakura Period (1185-1333). This rare relic is one of 17 in Japan and was designated a Cultural Property of Takarazuka City.

Tourist Information

Source: The Takarazuka municipal government

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