Introduction to Buddhist Traditional Practices and Castle Town History

Delve deep into Izushi’s town roots in Sukyoji Temple

If you are a history lover or keen to cleanse your soul with Buddhist activities, the castle town of Izushi in Hyogo’s Tajima region will surely give you a fulfilling memory to take home.

Walk along historical streets with the classic-Japanese style architecture, and feel as if you’ve traveled back to olden Japan. 
Start your day touring iconic tourist destinations such as the Izushi Castle Ruins and Shinkoro Clock Tower. Venturing deeper still, you’ll find Sukyoji (Takuan-dera) Temple―a tranquil oasis that contrasts with the bustling streets of the town. It’s also known as the Takuan Temple—a theory states that one of the early head monks, Takuan Soho, created the popular vegetable dish of takuan (pickled daikon radish), which was named after him. Depending on the season, you may even see radish put out to dry around the temple!
 

Have a chat with a resident Buddhist monk while sipping matcha tea and nibbling on some traditional sweets, and let their fascinating anecdotes entertain you as you gain even deeper knowledge of the town’s history. For those who are eager to experience an authentic Buddhist practice, try seated meditation, sutra-copying, or tracing a picture of a Buddhist image, all with the support of an English-speaking guide. By freeing your mind from worry and concentrating on these calming activities, you’re sure to find inner peace.

Access: From Shin-Osaka Station, take the Kōnotori limited express train of the San’in 
Main Line to Kinosaki Onsen Station (just under three hours); transfer to a local train to Toyooka Station (about 12 minutes); then take the Zentan Bus to the Izushi stop (about 30 minutes).
 

Izu Sukyoji (Takuan-dera) Temple