The Main Hall with Its Elevated Wooden Stage
The main hall is a five-bay structure with a hip-and-gable roof covered in cypress bark. Built on sloping terrain near the mountain summit, its front section projects outward in a distinctive elevated wooden-stage design similar to that of Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto. This architectural feature is the reason for the temple’s nickname, “Mino Kiyomizu.”
According to tradition, the original main hall was built with support from Hōjō Masako, the influential wife of Minamoto no Yoritomo and a prominent political figure of the Kamakura period. That building was destroyed by fire during the Ōnin War. The present main hall was reconstructed in 1670, during the Kanbun era of the Edo period, and is designated an Important Cultural Property of Gifu Prefecture.
The Kamakura-Period Tahōtō Pagoda
A notable feature of the temple grounds is a tahōtō, or multi-tiered Buddhist pagoda, traditionally believed to have been built under the patronage of Hōjō Masako during the late Kamakura period, between 1275 and 1332. It is designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan and preserves valuable examples of medieval Japanese architecture.
According to temple tradition, a severe drought once caused widespread famine throughout Japan during the Kamakura period. Hōjō Masako reportedly received a divine message in a dream instructing her to copy the Lotus Sutra and offer it in prayer at a pond at Nichiryūbuji Temple.
She followed the instructions, and rain subsequently fell, helping the people escape starvation. In gratitude, she arranged for the restoration of the temple’s dilapidated complex of seven principal buildings. The tahōtō is regarded as an important surviving monument from this period and was designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan in 1950.
The Legend of Ryōmen Sukuna
According to the temple’s own traditions, Nichiryūbuji was founded in the first half of the fifth century by Ryōmen Sukuna, a legendary figure who also appears in the ancient Japanese chronicle Nihon Shoki.
The legend recounts that Ryōmen Sukuna climbed the peaks of Mount Takazawa and defeated a dragon deity that had been causing harm in the area. He then established the temple at this location.
Various legends concerning Ryōmen Sukuna survive throughout Gifu Prefecture, but the tradition associated with Nichiryūbuji is considered one of the oldest.
Temple Buildings and Highlights
Niō Gate
The Niō Gate, which guards the entrance to the temple grounds, was constructed in 1718 during the Kyōhō era of the Edo period.
Main Hall
The main hall was rebuilt in 1670 and features a distinctive elevated wooden stage that recalls the architecture of Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto. It is designated an Important Cultural Property of Gifu Prefecture.
Tahōtō Pagoda
This late Kamakura-period pagoda is an Important Cultural Property of Japan and is one of the temple’s most valuable historic structures.
Hōkyōintō Stone Pagoda
This stone monument is traditionally said to contain a portion of the remains of Minamoto no Yoritomo, the founder of the Kamakura shogunate.
Other Facilities and Sacred Features
Other highlights include the bell tower, a thousand-year-old-looking cypress known as Senbon Hinoki, the Yakushi Hall, the Konpira Hall, the monks’ residence, and Mitarashi Sacred Spring, which adds to the tranquil atmosphere of the grounds.
Discover the History and Spiritual Heritage of Takazawa Kannon
Nichiryūbuji Temple combines centuries of Buddhist tradition, distinctive architecture, and legends passed down through generations. From its elevated wooden-stage main hall and medieval pagoda to its stories of Hōjō Masako and Ryōmen Sukuna, the temple offers a fascinating glimpse into the religious and cultural history of Gifu Prefecture.
Set amid wooded mountain slopes, it is an appealing destination for visitors seeking a peaceful retreat, historic architecture, and the natural beauty of Japan’s temple landscapes.