The History of Zuikoji Temple
Foundation and Reconstruction
According to tradition, Zuikoji Temple was founded by Prince Shotoku. However, the temple fell into decline after being damaged by fire during the Kenmu era (1334–1336).
In 1643, during the Kan’ei era, the monk Tennen revived the temple and established it under the name Shigetsuji. Later, in 1729, Tennen’s successor, Hokuzen, changed the temple’s name to Zuikoji and its mountain name to Tenzan.
The temple buildings were destroyed by an air raid during the Pacific War in 1945. Reconstruction was completed in 1984, giving the temple the appearance it has today.
The Story of Setsugeikyo Bridge
A Bridge Made from Whale Bones
Setsugeikyo Bridge, located within the temple grounds, is approximately 6 meters long and 3 meters wide. It is famous for its use of whale bones, making it an exceptionally unusual bridge in Japan.
The story of the bridge dates back to the 18th century. In 1754, Tanjū Zenji, the fourth chief priest of Zuikoji, visited Taiji in Wakayama Prefecture. Local fishermen asked him to pray for a successful fishing season.
At first, Tanjū Zenji refused because taking animal life is contrary to Buddhist teachings. However, seeing the fishermen’s difficult circumstances, he eventually agreed to pray for them.
According to the tradition, the fishermen subsequently enjoyed a successful catch. In gratitude, they presented the temple with 30 ryō of gold and 18 whale bones. These whale bones were then used to create the original Setsugeikyo Bridge.
Reconstruction and Preservation
Over the years, Setsugeikyo Bridge has been rebuilt several times because of war damage and deterioration. After it was destroyed in the 1945 air raids, it was reconstructed in 1974 with the cooperation of the town of Taiji.
The bridge was rebuilt again in 2006 because of aging. Today, it is recognized as one of the 50 Notable Bridges of Naniwa and attracts attention in Japan and abroad as a rare bridge associated with whale bones.
Cultural Heritage of Zuikoji Temple
The Cultural Value of Setsugeikyo Bridge
Setsugeikyo Bridge is regarded as the only bridge in Japan constructed using whale bones. Its unusual history and design make it one of the temple’s most distinctive attractions.
The bridge has also been included as an additional selection in the 100 Famous Bridges of Japan, reflecting its cultural and historical significance.
A Picture Book Preserving the Local Legend
To preserve the story of the bridge for future generations, the Higashiyodogawa Ward Office published the picture book The Whale Bridge of Zuikoji Temple in 2003.
Created under the guidance of Sadashi Miyoshi, the book tells the story of Tanjū Zenji’s prayer for a successful catch and the origins of Setsugeikyo Bridge. It has also been used as part of local educational activities.
Visiting Zuikoji Temple and Setsugeikyo Bridge
Zuikoji Temple offers visitors an opportunity to explore a historic Buddhist temple while discovering the unusual story behind its famous whale-bone bridge. The combination of Buddhist history, local traditions, and the connection with Taiji gives the site a distinctive character.
As you walk through the quiet temple grounds, take time to appreciate the history of the temple’s repeated reconstruction and the remarkable story that gave rise to Setsugeikyo Bridge.
Access
Osaka City Bus: The temple is immediately beside the Zuiko 2-chome bus stop.
Hankyu Kyoto Line: Approximately 500 meters east of Kamishinjo Station.
Osaka Metro Imazatosuji Line: Approximately 700 meters southwest of Zuiko 4-chome Station.
Osaka Metro Imazatosuji Line: Approximately 1 kilometer northwest of Daido-Toyosato Station.
A Unique Historical Site in Higashiyodogawa
Zuikoji Temple combines a history traditionally linked to Prince Shotoku with the remarkable story of Setsugeikyo Bridge, a rare bridge associated with whale bones. Its repeated reconstruction and long relationship with the local community add further depth to the site.
When exploring Higashiyodogawa Ward, a visit to Zuikoji Temple and Setsugeikyo Bridge offers a chance to discover a lesser-known side of Osaka’s history and cultural heritage.