Ōshō-ji Temple

What it is

• A Tendai Buddhist temple founded by Hodo Sennin between 650 and 654.
• The eighth site on the Kansai Flower Temple pilgrimage dedicated to Sho-kannon.
• Known as the Temple of Sal Trees with a garden designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty.
• The main hall was rebuilt in 1868 and underwent renovation in 1924.

What to see

• An eight-meter-long Nirvana Buddha statue crafted from stone and hedges.
• A bronze Buddha statue dating back to the 7th century.
• A historic main hall rebuilt by Akamatsu Norisuke in 1351.
• Scenic garden landscapes recognized for their beauty in Hyogo Prefecture.

When to go

• The Sal Festival takes place from mid-June to early July.

Getting there

• The temple is an eight-minute taxi ride from Fukusaki Station.

Notes written by Japan Gems from facts in Japanese Wikipedia.