Shonenji Temple

Overview

Shonenji Temple is a Jingo-shu Chizan sect temple located in Sakai City, Fukui Prefecture. Founded during the Muromachi period, it has been intertwined with numerous events and figures throughout its long history, and remains cherished by the local community. It is particularly famous for its connection to Mitsuhide Akechi. Just before the Honno-ji Incident in 1582, Akechi is said to have visited this place and stayed for about a month. Details of Akechi's stay can be gleaned from historical records and local legends. There's a legend that Akechi's wife, Hii, regained her black hair while here, and a shrine dedicated to this black hair still stands today. Shonenji Temple is also the burial place of Yoshisada Nitta. Nitta was a samurai from the late Kamakura and Nanboku-cho periods, who fought alongside Masashige Kusunoki in overthrowing the Kamakura Shogunate and later clashed with Takauji Ashikaga, the founder of the Muromachi Shogunate. Nitta is said to have died here after his defeat by the Hojo clan. The temple grounds preserve Matsuo Basho's poem stone and other historical sites commemorating Akechi's stay, making it a must-see for history buffs. In recent years, it has gained attention as a filming location for the NHK Taiga drama "Kirin ga Kuru," attracting numerous tourists. Shonenji Temple is a temple surrounded by history and nature, possessing a serene and dignified beauty. It's the perfect place to spend some quiet time and reflect on history.