Virtual Kako County Saigoku 33 Kannon Pilgrimage #28 Shofuku-ji Temple

 

     The exact founding date of Shofuku-ji Temple in Nakano Village (Kako County, Harima Province) remains unknown. However, historical records first mention the village in 1354 as part of Ae Manor, which was then under the control of Sumiyoshi Shrine. At that time, Akamatsu Norisuke (1314–1372) served as the Shugo (Samurai Guardian) of Harima Province. Although Norisuke had briefly aligned himself with the Southern Court in 1351, he returned to the Northern Court the following year.

     Within the temple precincts stands a Hokyointo (a treasure chest seal pagoda), which is believed to date back to the latter half of the Muromachi Period (1336–1573).

     Taking these factors into account, it is highly probable that as the authority of Sumiyoshi Shrine declined, local samurai emerged in the area. These warriors likely established the temple to pray for their own salvation and peace in the afterlife amidst the uncertainties of warfare.

Address: Nakano−94−1, Hiraokacho, Kakogawa, Hyogo 675-0113

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