Hirokawa Temple (Osaka Prefecture) Complete Guide: The Final Resting Place of Priest Saigyo and a Famous Cherry Blossom Spot
Hirokawa Temple (hirokawadeら), nestled in Hirokawa, Kanan Town, Minamikawachi District, Osaka Prefecture, is a historic temple known as the place where Saigyo, a poet from the Heian period, spent his final days. With the mountain name of Ryuuchizan and serving as the Juun Betsugaku Honzan of the Shingon Daigo School, it is also counted as the 13th station of the Saigoku 49 Yakushi Pilgrimage Route. This article provides a detailed introduction to all aspects of this ancient temple, including its history, sites within the grounds, valuable cultural properties, its appeal as a famous cherry blossom spot, and access information.
Table of Contents
- Overview and Basic Information about Hirokawa Temple
- History of Hirokawa Temple
- Points of Interest Within the Grounds
- Cultural Properties and Collections
- Hirokawa Temple as a Famous Cherry Blossom Spot
- Priest Saigyo and Hirokawa Temple
- History of Jiun and Saigyo Veneration
- Visiting Information and Access
- Nearby Tourist Attractions
Overview and Basic Information about Hirokawa Temple
Hirokawa Temple is a Shingon Daigo School temple located at 43 Hirokawa, Kanan Town, Minamikawachigun, Osaka Prefecture. Its mountain name is Ryuuchizan, and it enshrines Yakushi Nyorai as its principal deity. It is designated as an Osaka Prefectural Historic Site and has been selected as one of “Osaka’s Hundred Green Selections,” being highly evaluated not only for its religious value but also for its natural environment and cultural landscape.
It is also known as the 13th station of the Saigoku 49 Yakushi Pilgrimage Route and a Gyogyoja Reiseki pilgrimage site, attracting many worshippers. In particular, as the place where Priest Saigyo spent his final days, it holds an important position in literary history.
History of Hirokawa Temple
Founding and Opening
The founding of Hirokawa Temple dates back to the Asuka period. According to legend, it was established around 670 CE during the reign of Emperor Tenji by Enno Ozunu (Gyoja). Enno Ozunu is known as the legendary founder of Shugendo, and establishing a place of practice at this location is said to be the beginning of Hirokawa Temple.
According to another account, it was founded during the reign of Emperor Tenmu. In any case, it is certain that the temple has a history of over 1,300 years.
Kukai’s Middle Revival
In the early Konin era (810-824) of the Heian period, Kukai (Kobo Daishi), the founder of Shingon Buddhism, is said to have visited this temple and revived it. Kukai devoted himself to the restoration and improvement of temples throughout the country, and Hirokawa Temple was one of the temples that benefited from his work. During this period, the foundation of Hirokawa Temple as a Shingon temple was established.
The Final Days of Priest Saigyo
The greatest event that inscribed Hirokawa Temple’s name in history was the fact that Saigyo, a poet from the late Heian period, spent his final days at this location. Saigyo left a secular life to become a priest, wandered throughout the country, and left behind many excellent waka poems.
In Kenku 1 (1190), the 73-year-old Saigyo visited Hirokawa Temple, and in the following year, on February 16, Bunji 6 (1190), he passed away at this place. True to his own poem, “I wish to die in spring / beneath the cherry flowers / at the time of the full moon / in the month of Kisaragi,” he departed from this world in the season of cherry blossoms, at the full moon of Kisaragi (the second lunar month).
Revival in the Edo Period and Jiun
With the coming of the Edo period, Hirokawa Temple was greatly revived by Jiun (1605-1691), a Buddhist priest who deeply revered Saigyo. Jiun dedicated his life to tracing Saigyo’s footsteps and became the chief priest of Hirokawa Temple, devoting himself to spreading Saigyo’s virtues.
Jiun collected materials related to Saigyo and built the Saigyo Hall, among other works, establishing Hirokawa Temple as a sacred site associated with Saigyo. Much of the credit for Hirokawa Temple becoming widely known today as “the temple of Saigyo’s final days” belongs to Jiun’s efforts.
Points of Interest Within the Grounds
The grounds of Hirokawa Temple form a serene space surrounded by nature at the foot of Mount Katsuragi. Despite its modest size, numerous historic structures and literary remains are scattered throughout, captivating those who visit.
Main Hall
The Main Hall, located in front of the temple grounds, is the central structure of Hirokawa Temple. It enshrines the principal deity, Yakushi Nyorai, and serves as the first place visited by worshippers. Yakushi Nyorai draws the faith of people seeking healing from illness and longevity, and as a station of the Saigoku 49 Yakushi Pilgrimage Route, it attracts many pilgrims.
The Main Hall’s appearance, though modest, possesses dignity and harmonizes with the quiet mountain environment.
Saigyo Hall
The Saigyo Hall was built to commemorate Priest Saigyo and is an important structure within the grounds. Built during the Edo period by Jiun, this hall enshrines an image of Saigyo, and pilgrims devoted to Saigyo never cease to visit.
Cherry blossoms have been planted around the Saigyo Hall, and in spring, the flowers beloved by Saigyo color the hall. A scene emerges that embodies Saigyo’s poem, “I wish to die in spring / beneath the cherry flowers.”
Saigyo’s Tomb
Saigyo’s grave, known as Saigyo’s Tomb, stands quietly in a secluded area of the grounds. More than 800 years have passed since Saigyo’s passing at this location, yet many lovers of literature and poets continue to visit and pay their respects.
The area around the tomb is surrounded by trees, and it is a space where one can feel the unity with nature that Saigyo sought.
Jiun’s Tomb
The tomb of Jiun, who venerated Saigyo and dedicated himself to reviving Hirokawa Temple, is also located within the grounds. Jiun’s Tomb is positioned near Saigyo’s Tomb, conveying the feelings of Jiun, who continued to revere his master Saigyo.
Jiun was a pioneer in Saigyo studies and made significant contributions to later understanding of Saigyo. Many researchers and literature enthusiasts visit to honor his achievements.
The Abbot’s Quarters and Garden
Beautiful gardens have been developed at the abbot’s quarters of Hirokawa Temple, and they may be visited. The garden displays different aspects with each season, and particularly stunning scenery can be enjoyed during spring cherry blossoms, early summer greenery, and autumn foliage.
The Abbot’s Quarters Garden embodies the aesthetics of Japanese garden design and provides a space where one can quietly stroll and calm the mind. Admission is included with a shared ticket to the Saigyo Memorial Museum, costing 500 yen for adults and 200 yen for children, allowing visitors to see both facilities.
Saigyo Memorial Museum
A Saigyo Memorial Museum is located within the grounds, displaying numerous precious materials related to Priest Saigyo. Visitors can see hanging scrolls believed to be in Saigyo’s own hand, materials concerning Saigyo’s life and works, and the results of Jiun’s research on Saigyo.
The Saigyo Memorial Museum is an important facility for deeply understanding Saigyo’s literature and is a must-see spot for literature enthusiasts. Operating hours are from 10:00 to 17:00.
Cultural Properties and Collections
Hirokawa Temple houses numerous precious cultural properties that have been preserved throughout its long history.
Osaka Prefectural Designated Tangible Cultural Properties
Among the cultural properties held by Hirokawa Temple, particularly important are the Buddhist statues designated as Osaka Prefectural Designated Tangible Cultural Properties.
The Wooden Seated Statue of Kūsaku Shōnin is regarded as a fine sculptural work from the Kamakura period. Kūsaku Shōnin was a high priest involved in the revival of Hirokawa Temple, and his portrait sculpture serves as a valuable historical record of how priests appeared in that era.
The Wooden Seated Statue of Kobo Daishi expresses Kukai (Kobo Daishi), the founder of Shingon Buddhism. This important cultural property demonstrates the deep connection Hirokawa Temple, as a Shingon temple, has with Kukai.
These Buddhist statues demonstrate the high level of medieval sculptural techniques while testifying to the historical importance of Hirokawa Temple.
Osaka Prefectural Designated Natural Monument: The Hawthorn
Within the grounds of Hirokawa Temple stands a hawthorn (kaidō, a Rosaceae tree) over 350 years old, which has been designated as an Osaka Prefectural Designated Natural Monument. The hawthorn is a flowering tree native to China that produces beautiful flowers in spring.
This hawthorn, with a history of over 350 years, has continued to adorn the grounds since the Edo period, serving as a living cultural property. During its blooming period in spring, pale pink flowers elegantly color the grounds, enchanting many worshippers.
Important Art Objects and Saigyo-Related Materials
The Saigyo Memorial Museum houses important materials including hanging scrolls believed to be in Saigyo’s own hand and ancient documents recording Saigyo’s waka poems. These are treated as important art objects and serve as essential primary sources for Saigyo literary studies.
Additionally, numerous Saigyo-related materials collected by Jiun are housed here, allowing one to understand the state of Saigyo studies during the Edo period.
Hirokawa Temple as a Famous Cherry Blossom Spot
Hirokawa Temple is also famous as a cherry blossom viewing spot, having been selected as one of “Osaka’s Hundred Green Selections.” Given that Saigyo was a poet who loved cherry blossoms, many cherry trees have been planted throughout the grounds and surrounding areas.
The Sumiya Cherry (Sumiya-zakura)
The most famous among the temple grounds is the weeping cherry tree known as “Sumiya Cherry.” Despite its slender trunk, when it begins to bloom, it produces delicate flowers of deep pink, enchanting visitors. While there are various theories about the origin of the name Sumiya Cherry, its beauty has become one of Hirokawa Temple’s representative landscapes.
The elegant branching characteristic of weeping cherry trees and the contrast with the deep pink flowers make it a popular spot among photography enthusiasts.
Cherry Blossoms in Surrounding Areas
Around Hirokawa Temple, approximately 1,500 cherry trees including Somei Yoshino, double-flowered cherry, and weeping cherry have been planted. In spring, the entire area is dyed cherry blossom pink. Walking through the temple grounds and adjacent paths allows one to experience passing through a tunnel of cherry blossoms.
Just as Saigyo composed, “I wish to die in spring / beneath the cherry flowers,” Hirokawa Temple, where one can spend quiet moments beneath the cherry blossoms, truly embodies Saigyo’s ideal.
Cherry Blossom Viewing Season and Bloom Period
The peak bloom period for Hirokawa Temple’s cherry blossoms is typically from late March to early April. Somei Yoshino blooms first, followed by weeping cherry, and finally double-flowered cherry, allowing visitors to enjoy various cherry varieties over approximately two weeks.
Particularly around Saigyo’s death anniversary on the 16th day of the second lunar month (which falls between mid-March and early April in the modern calendar), memorial services honoring Saigyo are sometimes held, attracting many worshippers.
Priest Saigyo and Hirokawa Temple
The Life of Saigyo
Priest Saigyo (1118-1190) was a leading poet of the late Heian period. His birth name was Sato no Rikiyo. He served Emperor Toba as one of the Hokumen (Northern Guard) warriors but renounced the world to become a priest at age 23.
After his priesthood, he wandered throughout the country, composing numerous waka poems on nature and the transience of human existence. With 94 poems included in the Shinkokinwakashū (New Collection of Ancient and Modern Japanese Poetry), he exerted great influence on subsequent Japanese poetry.
Saigyo and Cherry Blossoms
Saigyo is known as a poet who loved cherry blossoms and left numerous waka poems on them. The most famous is “I wish to die in spring / beneath the cherry flowers / at the time of the full moon / in the month of Kisaragi.”
This poem expresses a desire to die in spring when cherry blossoms bloom, at the time of the full moon in Kisaragi (the second lunar month), and Saigyo indeed passed away exactly as this poem describes, on February 16, Bunji 6 (1190), at the time of the full moon, at Hirokawa Temple.
Why Did Saigyo Choose Hirokawa Temple for His Final Days
There are various theories about why Saigyo chose Hirokawa Temple in his final years. One is that Hirokawa Temple, located in a quiet mountain setting, was suitable for practice and meditation. Another is that as a Shingon temple, it was an appropriate place for Saigyo, who revered Kukai’s teachings.
The fact that it was a famous cherry blossom spot may also have been a factor. For Saigyo, a poet who loved cherry blossoms, Hirokawa Temple, where he could spend his final days beneath the flowers, must have been an ideal place.
History of Jiun and Saigyo Veneration
The Life of Jiun
Jiun (1605-1691) was a Buddhist priest of the early Edo period belonging to the Shingon school and is known as a pioneer of Saigyo studies. From his youth, he was deeply devoted to Saigyo, wandering throughout the country tracing Saigyo’s footsteps.
In his later years, Jiun became the chief priest of Hirokawa Temple and dedicated his life to organizing the site where Saigyo’s life ended and spreading knowledge of Saigyo’s virtues.
Jiun’s Achievements
Jiun collected materials related to Saigyo and was involved in compiling works such as the “Saigyo Monogatari Emaki” (Illustrated Tale of Saigyo). He also built the Saigyo Hall and organized Saigyo’s Tomb, establishing Hirokawa Temple as a sacred site associated with Saigyo.
Through Jiun’s efforts, Hirokawa Temple, which had begun to be forgotten as the site of Saigyo’s final days, regained attention and became visited by many literary figures and scholars.
Saigyo Veneration After Jiun
After Jiun’s death, the tradition of Saigyo veneration has continued at Hirokawa Temple. The establishment of the Saigyo Memorial Museum and regular services on Saigyo’s death anniversary are among ongoing efforts to convey Saigyo’s spirit to the modern era.
Even in the present day, Hirokawa Temple remains an important center for Saigyo studies, cherished by literary researchers and poets.
Visiting Information and Access
Basic Information
- Address: 〒585-0022 43 Hirokawa, Kanan Town, Minamikawachigun, Osaka Prefecture
- Phone Number: 0721-93-2814
- School: Shingon Daigo School
- Principal Deity: Yakushi Nyorai
- Pilgrimage Sites: 13th station of the Saigoku 49 Yakushi Pilgrimage Route, Gyogyoja Reiseki pilgrimage site
Visiting Hours and Admission Fees
- Visiting Hours: Abbot’s Quarters Garden and Saigyo Memorial Museum 10:00-17:00
- Admission Fee: Combined ticket for Abbot’s Quarters Garden and Saigyo Memorial Museum: 500 yen for adults, 200 yen for children
- Grounds: Free to visit at any time
Recommended Duration
A visit including ground exploration, the Abbot’s Quarters Garden, and the Saigyo Memorial Museum typically takes about one to one and a half hours. If leisurely strolling through the grounds during cherry blossom season, allow approximately two hours.
Access Methods
Public Transportation
The nearest station is Tondabayashi Station on the Kintetsu Nagano Line. Access from the station is as follows:
- Board the Kongo Bus ③ “Kawachi” line from Kintetsu Tondabayashi Station
- Get off at the final stop “Kawachi” bus stop (approximately 20 minutes)
- Walk approximately 5 minutes (about 200 meters) from the bus stop
Since bus service is limited, it is recommended to confirm the timetable in advance.
By Car
From Osaka City, head south on National Route 309 toward Kanan Town. There is limited parking available around the temple grounds. During busy seasons such as cherry blossom time, use of public transportation is recommended.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Mount Katsuragi
Hirokawa Temple is located at the foot of Mount Katsuragi, where one can enjoy hiking. Mount Katsuragi, with an elevation of 959 meters, offers panoramic views of the Osaka Plain from its summit. It is known as a beautiful mountain with azaleas in spring and miscanthus in autumn.
Historic Sites in Kanan Town
Besides Hirokawa Temple, Kanan Town has ancient burial mounds and historic structures scattered throughout. When visiting Hirokawa Temple, exploring the surrounding historic sites is recommended.
Tondabayashi Jiin-machi
The Tondabayashi Jiin-machi within walking distance of Kintetsu Tondabayashi Station is an Important Preservation District for Groups of Historic Buildings with Edo-period townscape remaining. It can be visited on the way to or from Hirokawa Temple.
Conclusion
Hirokawa Temple, with over 1,300 years of history, occupies an important position in literary history as the place where Priest Saigyo spent his final days. Through historical events including its founding by Enno Ozunu during the Asuka period, its revival by Kukai during the Heian period, and Saigyo’s passing, and subsequently being established by Jiun during the Edo period as a sacred site for Saigyo veneration, the temple has maintained its significance.
Historic sites including the Main Hall, Saigyo Hall, Saigyo’s Tomb, and Jiun’s Tomb are scattered throughout the grounds, and the Abbot’s Quarters Garden and Saigyo Memorial Museum display valuable cultural properties and materials. Additionally, it is known as a famous cherry blossom spot selected for “Osaka’s Hundred Green Selections,” with approximately 1,500 cherry trees blooming brilliantly in spring.
Nestled in the quiet mountains of Kanan Town, Minamikawachigun, Osaka Prefecture, Hirokawa Temple is a special place where history, literature, and nature are in harmony. Why not spend a quiet time at this temple, beneath the cherry blossoms that Saigyo loved, reflecting on his life and works?
