Kyuanji Temple

Kuan-ji Temple is a temple in Ikeda City that was founded in 725 by the monk Gyoki. It is said that Toyotomi Hideyoshi visited the temple during the Azuchi–Momoyama period, and within the grounds you can also see an old kaya tree that is said to have been planted to commemorate moon viewing. The temple is also known as the “Temple of Flowers,” famous for offering seasonal views of many blossoms throughout the year, including plum blossoms, camellias, cherry blossoms, and hydrangeas. Many visitors come specifically to enjoy the flowers in each season. The two-story gate (rōmon) at the entrance, which welcomes visitors, is designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Its elegant roofline—created with a distinctive technique that produces an uneven, gracefully curved eave—is especially beautiful, and it is sometimes called one of the most beautiful rōmon gates. The main hall, enshrining the principal image of Senju Kannon (Thousand-Armed Kannon), is the 19th site of the Settsu 33 Kannon Pilgrimage. Beyond the main hall lies a garden of about 10,000 square meters known as Kokū-en. Highlights include the “Aji-yama” and “Banji-ike,” designed with motifs inspired by Sanskrit characters. The nearest station is Hankyu Ikeda Station; from there, transfer to a Hankyu bus and it takes about 15 minutes.