Historical Background and Foundation
Prosperity During the Heian and Kamakura Periods
Jakkoji is traditionally said to have been founded in 1205 by a woman known as Eguchi no Kimi, who is said to have been the daughter of Taira no Sukemori.
At that time, Eguchi was an important transportation hub for river and waterborne travel between Osaka and Kyoto. Many courtesans gathered in the area, and prominent aristocrats are said to have visited as well. Because of its connection with Eguchi no Kimi, the temple became known as Eguchi no Kimi-do and attracted worshippers.
Destruction and Reconstruction
The temple was destroyed by fire during conflicts including the Genko War and the Engen War, but was later rebuilt.
During the Shotoku era (1711–1716), the temple was reconstructed by Fumon Bini. At this time, it converted from the Tendai school to the Nichiren school.
The temple also preserves a statue of Fugen Bosatsu (Samantabhadra Bodhisattva) that is said to have survived the fires. The statue has long been revered as an object of worship.
The Famous Poem Exchange Between Saigyo and Eguchi no Kimi
The exchange of poems between Eguchi no Kimi (Myōjo) and Saigyo is a well-known episode recorded in the Shin Kokin Wakashu, one of Japan’s major classical poetry anthologies.
Saigyo’s Poem
According to the story, Saigyo visited Eguchi while traveling and asked for a place to stay. After a courtesan refused his request, he composed a poem expressing his feelings.
“世の中を厭ふまでこそ難からめ かりのやどりを惜しむ君かな”
The poem questions why she would refuse even a temporary place of shelter to someone who has turned away from worldly life.
Myōjo’s Reply
Eguchi no Kimi responded with her own poem:
“世を厭ふ人とし聞けば かりの宿に心とむなと思ふばかりぞ”
Her reply suggests that, since she had heard that Saigyo had rejected the worldly life, she merely wished him not to become attached even to a temporary lodging.
According to tradition, this exchange profoundly affected Myōjo. She eventually devoted herself to Buddhism and is said to have become known as Myōzen Kōsōsō Bikuni.
Highlights of the Temple Grounds
Main Hall
The main hall was reconstructed during the Shotoku era from 1711 to 1716. Its dignified architecture reflects the characteristics of a Nichiren Buddhist temple.
Bell Tower
The temple’s bell tower houses a bell known as the “Bell of Eguchi.” The bell is associated with traditions surrounding Eguchi no Kimi and forms an important part of the temple’s historical atmosphere.
Memorial Mounds and Poetry Monuments
The grounds contain memorial mounds and stone monuments commemorating Saigyo and Myōjo. These monuments preserve the memory of their famous exchange of poems for later generations.
Kimizuka and Saigyōzuka
Kimizuka and Saigyōzuka are memorial sites associated with Eguchi no Kimi and Saigyo. They offer visitors another way to connect with the historical and literary traditions surrounding the temple.
Cultural and Historical Assets
Jakkoji preserves several items associated with Eguchi no Kimi and the literary tradition surrounding her.
Wooden statue of Eguchi no Kimi (Myōjo)
Painting depicting Myōjo attributed to Kano Motonobu
The “Eguchi Courtesan Becomes a Nun” episode in the Senjūshō
Together, these cultural materials help convey the enduring connection between the temple, Eguchi no Kimi, and classical Japanese literature.
Access
From Mizukōyonchōme Station: Approximately 13 minutes on foot from Mizukōyonchōme Station on the Osaka Metro Imazato Line.
By bus: Get off at the Eguchi Kimi-do-mae stop on an Osaka City Bus. The temple is immediately nearby.
A Quiet Temple Where History and Literature Meet
Jakkoji Temple, also known as Eguchi no Kimi-do, offers visitors a chance to encounter the history, religious traditions, and classical literature of Osaka in a peaceful setting.
The famous poem exchange between Saigyo and Eguchi no Kimi provides a fascinating link to Japan’s classical literary culture, while the temple’s historic buildings, memorial sites, cultural assets, and legends add further depth to a visit.
Walking through the quiet temple grounds while reflecting on stories that have been passed down since the medieval period offers a distinctive way to experience the cultural heritage of Higashiyodogawa Ward.