Byakugoji Temple

Byakugoji Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple in Hyogo Prefecture famous for its fuji flowers (wisteria) in late spring. It was built in the early 8th century to honor a mystical medicine Buddha statue. It is said that from the urna on the Buddha's forehead, auspicious light was emitted. That is why the temple was called byakugoji or urna temple. Please note that the Buddha is a so-called secret Buddha (hibutsu) that is not usually shown to the public. In addition to the temple's long history, some of the other attractions include its scenic bridge, its garden and the live peacock which is said to protect the temple.