Heisenji Hakusan Shrine

Heisenji Hakusan Shrine is a shrine in Katsuyama City, Fukui Prefecture. Until the Meiji era, it was known as Ryoosan Heisenji, a powerful Tendai Buddhist temple. Even today it is called a "mahōroba"—a wonderful, ideal place—and the sacred atmosphere of its moss-covered grounds draws visitors into what feels like a true sanctuary. Founded in 717 by Taicho, Hakusan Heisenji was completely burned down in 1574. After that, it lay quietly for centuries until excavation surveys began in the Heisei era, uncovering stone pavements, stone walls, and the remains of temple lodgings. The grounds are said to span about 200 hectares, but only about 2 hectares have been surveyed so far, and excavation work is still ongoing. Its vast precincts have been selected for honors such as "Japan’s Top 100 Roads," "Top 100 Historic Roads," "Top 100 Fragrant Scenery Spots," and "Top 100 Beautiful Historical Landscapes of Japan." Two rocks within the precincts are said to form one of several spiritual boundary markers, and it is believed that passing through each boundary gradually purifies you. To get to Heisenji Hakusan Shrine, take a bus from Katsuyama Station for about 20 minutes.