Manpuku-ji Temple

Overview

Manpuku-ji Temple is a Jishū Buddhist temple located in Masuda City, Shimane Prefecture. Founded during the Heian period, it was originally called Anpuku-ji Temple, a large Tendai Buddhist temple located in Iwamizusū-ura. The fourth abbot, Donkai, revived it as a Jishū Buddhist training temple in 1313. In 1374, Kanemi Masuda, the lord of Masuda Nanao Castle, relocated it to its present site, renaming it Masuda Dojo Jōkōin Manpuku-ji Temple and making it the family temple of the Masuda clan. The highlight of Manpuku-ji Temple is undoubtedly its garden, designated as a Historic Site and Place of Scenic Beauty. Said to have been designed by Sesshu, it features a gently sloping artificial hill and stone arrangements beyond the Shinji pond in front, creating a bright and peaceful atmosphere. The main hall, built in the Kamakura architectural style, is also designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, offering a glimpse into the past. Built in 1374 (early Muromachi period), it is a single-story, hipped-roof building with a span of seven ken (approximately 12.6 meters) both in width and depth. Inside, you can find treasures such as the “Nihon Shirado” (Two Rivers and White Path) hanging scroll, a National Treasure, along with other designated cultural properties including sliding doors from the old study and ink wash landscape paintings. Manpuku-ji Temple is a highly recommended sightseeing spot, offering not only a journey through history and culture but also a tranquil escape in its beautiful garden.