Shakubu-ji, Buddhist temple in Nada ward, Kobe, Japan
Shakubu-ji is a Buddhist temple in Nada, Kobe, set with traditional Japanese architecture and stone gardens. A cedar tree over 100 years old, called the Mother Tree, stands on the grounds as a distinctive landmark.
This temple was founded in 646 CE as part of a group of 13 sacred Buddhist sites around Kobe. A fire destroyed it in 1976, but it was rebuilt and continues to serve as a spiritual center.
The temple features a water purification station at its entrance where visitors wash their hands before stepping into the sacred grounds. This practice reflects how the space connects daily ritual with spiritual purpose.
The temple sits on a mountain slope and can be reached by hiking trail that passes the remains of the former temple building. Wear sturdy shoes as the path is steep and uneven in places.
This temple was the first in Japan to introduce the traditional haraobi ceremony for safe childbirth and remains a pilgrimage site for expectant mothers. This distinctive role has given it special cultural standing.
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