Heisenji Hakusan Shrine

What it is

• Shrine in Katsuyama City, Fukui Prefecture.
• Founded in 717 by Buddhist monk Taicho.
• Originally a Buddhist temple, Reiozan Heisenji.
• Became a branch temple of Enryaku-ji Temple in 1084.

What to see

• Main hall enshrines Izanami-no-Mikoto.
• Betsuzansha enshrines Amenoshihomimi-no-Mikoto.
• Onamuchisha enshrines Onamuchi-no-Mikoto.
• Vast 150,000 square meter site.
• Old Genjoin garden is a national scenic spot.
• Old approach road is one of Japan's 100 Best Roads.

When to go

• Main hall is opened once every 33 years.

Notes written by Japan Gems from facts in Japanese Wikipedia.