Virtual Akashi 33 Kannon Pilgrimage #25 Taikoku-ji Temple

 

     Taikoku-ji Temple was founded in 727 by Priest Joe.  The most famous Joe, who studied in Tang China from 653 to 665, lived from 643 to 666.  The founder of Taikoku-ji Temple should be another Joe.

     The temple used to have the main hall, the Jogyo-do hall, and a dining hall.

     Jogyo-do hall is also called Jogyo-Zanmai-do hall.  Jogyo Zammai is the Buddhist practice in which monks walk around Amidabha for 90 days while chanting Nianfo and thinking of Amidabha in their hearts.  Therefore, the hall is square with Amidabha enshrined in the center, and often has a tented roof.

     Taikoku-ji Temple also had 22 sub-temples in its precincts.

     The temple was burned down in fire twice and diminished.  The second fire is said to have been caused by Miyoshi Nagayoshi (1522-1564).

     In 1554, in response to a request from Arima Shigenori, Nagayoshi attacked Miki Castle, which belonged to Bessho Nariharu (1502-1563), and captured 7 of its attached forts.  Presumably, Taikoku-ji Temple was burned down in one of the battles.

     The temple’s Buddhist tanka poem is:

As Avalokitesvara shines at the blessings,

The setting sun shines

On the shining mountains.

Address: Kodera-330 Ikawadani-chō, Nishi Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 651-2107

Phone: 078-974-3693

Miki Castle Ruins

Address: 5 Uenomarucho, Miki, Hyogo 673-0432

Phone: 0794-82-2000