安岡寺

Ankoji is a Buddhist temple situated on Mount Minami, featuring a main hall dedicated to Nyoirin Kannon with architectural styles reflecting the Edo period. The grounds contain multiple buildings arranged in a traditional temple layout surrounded by woodland.

The temple was founded in 775 by Prince Kaisei, son of Emperor Konin, making it one of the region's oldest religious sites. Following destructive fires during the Muromachi and Azuchi-Momoyama periods, the structures underwent major reconstruction efforts.

The temple houses a wooden Senju Kannon statue from the late Heian period that attracts those interested in classical religious sculpture. Visitors can observe how this figure remains a focal point for prayer and devotion within the halls today.

Reaching the temple requires walking for about 15 minutes from Urado bus stop, which you can access by taking a city bus from JR Takatsuki Station North Exit for around 15 minutes. The wooded location offers a peaceful setting, and comfortable footwear is recommended for navigating the walking path.

The temple grounds contain stones carved with individual characters from the Great Perfection of Wisdom Sutra by a monk named Kaichi, an unconventional artistic practice. This careful transcription reflects both the spiritual devotion and skilled craftsmanship that defined the site's heritage.