Virtual Settsu 33 Kannon Pilgrimage #14 Fuko-ji Temple

 

     Fuko-ji Temple is said to have been founded sometime between 717 and 724 by Priest Hodo, who traveled from India through Tang China and the Korean kingdom of Baekje to Japan from the 6th to 7th centuries.  It is unknown whether Hodo was still alive in the 8th century or not.  Its main deity is the copy of that of Hase-dera Temple in Yamato Province.  That is why the surrounding area was named Hase.  The one at Hase-dera Temple in Yamato Province was carved in 727.  If the one in Fuko-ji Temple was enshrined simultaneously with the foundation of the temple, even the year 724 sounds too early.  In the Middle Ages, the temple had five branches and its own feu.  The temple was burned down sometime between 1555 and 1557.  In 1558, Gozu Tenno Shrine, today's Susano Shrine, was moved to its present place and the temple was revived as its shrine temple.

     In 1555, Miyoshi Nagayoshi (1522-1564) invaded Harima Province and seized Akashi and Miki Castles.  Presumably, Fuko-ji Temple was burned down, involved in battle.

     Fuko-ji Temple is also the #1 member temple of the Upper Tadasho 33 Kannon Pilgrimage.

Address: Kitabatake-4-2 Nagatani, Takarazuka, Hyogo 669-1204

Phone: 0797-91-0690

Akashi Castle Ruins

Address: 1-27 Akashikoen, Akashi, Hyogo 673-0847

Phone: 078-912-7600

Miki Castle Ruins

Address: 5 Uenomarucho, Miki, Hyogo 673-0432

Phone: 0794-82-2000