Virtual New Mutsu 33 Kannon Pilgrimage #11 Tenno-ji Temple

 

     Tenno-ji Temple was founded in 587 in the territory which was ruled by Shinobu Kuninomiyatsuko, who was appointed by the Royal Family, who were based in Yamato Province at the time.  It is unknown whether a local powerful family was appointed to be the kuninomiyatsuko or the Royal Family dispatched someone to the territory as the kuninomiyatsuko.

     In July, 587, the Teibi Conflict, a military dispute between the pro-Shinto Mononobe Clan, led by Mononobe Moriya (?-587), and the pro-Buddhist Soga Clan, led by Soga Umako (551-626), broke out in Yamato Province.  After Moriya was killed in battle, Shitenno-ji Temple was founded in Settsu Province and Moriya's offspring and followers became the temple's slaves.  Moriya's territories were halved between the temple and his sister, who was Umako's wife.  Presumably, the then Shinobu Kuninomiyatsuko founded Tenno-ji Temple to show their loyalty to the new ruler of Japan.

     Anyway, until Taga Castle was built in 724, Shinobu Kuninomiyatsuko or Shinobu County functioned as the northernmost front line against northern foreigners.

Address: Tennoji-11 Iizaka, Fukushima, 960-0201

Phone: 024-542-2439

Site of Tagajo Castle

Address: Ichikawa, Tagajo City, Miyagi 985-0864

Phone: 022-368-1141

Shitenno-ji Temple

Address: 1 Chome-11-18 Shitennoji, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, 543-0051

Phone: 06-6771-0066