If you plan to visit Himeji in early spring, stop by Zuiganji (増位山随願寺). The oldest Tendai sect temple in the southern Hyōgo Prefecture has a plum grove. Besides the cultural properties, you see the elegant Himeji Castle from the plum grove. Using a professional camera, a picture of the castle with plum blossoms as the frame is also possible!
The plum blossom season at Zuiganji is usually from mid-February to early March and peaks between late February and early March. The temple is a less-known spot, and even those living in Himeji might be unaware of the plum grove. So, there is a big chance that you can admire the 160 plum blossoms without being disturbed by strangers!
About Zuiganji Temple
uiganji was established by a Korean monk called Eben (恵便) under the imperial order of Prince Shōtoku (聖徳太子). The temple was then expanded by Gyōki (行基) in 834. Thus, he is enshrined in the Kaizandō Hall (開山堂). Since the temple’s expansion, Zuiganji has been worshiped by the imperial family, aristocrats, and various samurai clans. The scale of Zuiganji was expanded during the Heian period (794 – 1185), and it had 36 sub-temples. Although Zuiganji and its sub-temples were destroyed in the late 16th century when Oda Nobunaga’s forces suppressed the region, it was restored by Hashiba Hideyoshi (later Toyotomi Hideyoshi) in 1585.
In the Edo period, it was counted as one of the top six temples in the Harima Province (播磨六山). In other words, it is ranked along with the oldest temple in Himeji, Shoshasan Engyōji Temple (書写山 圓教寺). Around 1649, the temple became the family temple of the Sakakibara clan (榊原氏), who ruled the Himeji Domain. Many buildings in the precinct were restored during the Edo period by the Sakakibara clan. Most of them have been designated as Japan’s important cultural properties.
The Buildings at Zuiganji Temple
The main worship hall, Hondō (本堂), was completed in 1692. The entire structure is decorated with a powerful and decorative design, making it a valuable large Buddhist temple from the mid-Edo period.
The main image at Zuiganji is the Healing Buddha. On his side, a Thousand-Armed Kannon and a Kannon statue are enshrined. The three statues are surrounded by Sūryaprabha, Candraprabha, and the Twelve Divine Generals. What many visitors pay attention to is the ceiling painting (2nd to the last photo in the left IG post below). Although weathered, the splendid dragon, phoenix, and celestial maiden were painted by Kanō Tan’yū (狩野探幽).
The altar on which the Healing Buddha is placed was made in the late Heian period. Unlike normal altars elsewhere, this one looks like a small temple, with doors decorated by various paintings. Note that the main image isn’t usually exhibited to the public except for the 11th of February when a major Goma ritual is held.
Tip: As the Hondō isn’t always open, it is best to email Zuiganji at [email protected] to make a reservation. The temple may or may not be able to accommodate your request.
Between Hondō and the rear temple, you will find the grave of Sakakibara Tadatsugu (榊原忠次). He is the key person who revived Zuiganji.
Behind the vermillion gate, there is a large inscription. Apparently, 3,000 words are curved on the monument, summarizing Sakakibara Tadatsugu and his family. The legend goes that if anyone can finish reading the 3,000 words without making an error, the turtle underneath the monument will move.
How to Get to Zuiganji Temple
- Driving is the best way to get to Zuiganji Temple. The temple’s parking lot has a capacity of 10 to 20 cars.
- Note the car park is likely to be full on Oni-harai no Hi (鬼追いの日), which is the 11th of February.
- Take a bus operated by Shinki Bus (神姫バス) bound for Ebunadanchi (江鮒団地), Hōjō (北条), or Furubokke Shizen Park (古法華公園), and get off at Shirakuni (白国). From the bus stop, it is a 30-minute walk/hike.
Discover the Plum Blossom Spots in Osaka
We are sure Himeji is one of many destinations you will visit in the Kansai region. Osaka Prefecture, for example, has many plum groves awaiting you to discover, too. If you fly into Osaka, there are a few plum blossom spots close to the Kansai Airport!
So, refer to our article on the Plum Blossom Posts in Osaka to plan your trip!