Teramachi

Overview

Teramachi was created in 1617 (Genna 3) when Lord Toda Ujitsuna ordered the construction of Amagasaki Castle in what is now Kita-jōnai and Minami-jōnai. As part of the development of the castle town, he gathered temples and established them in this area. A building inscription dated December of the same year remains at Honkō-ji Temple, which was moved to this location. Teramachi was formed by gathering temples that were located within the castle grounds, those that had existed in the town since the medieval period, nearby temples, and temples associated with feudal lords. Located in the northwest corner of the castle town, north of the samurai residences, Teramachi's purpose may have been to weaken the power of the temples by separating them from the town, while also providing a defensive function for the castle with the massive temple structures. An Edo period castle town map from 1635 shows 20 temples, but through changes in feudal lords, relocation, and temple closures, 11 temples remain today. Despite its urban location, Teramachi uniquely preserves the atmosphere of an Edo-era castle town, offering a tranquil escape into history. Take a leisurely stroll and reflect on the past while admiring the preserved temples and streetscapes.