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According to legend, about 1300 years ago during the Nara period, the high monk Gyoki Bosatsu traveled to this area and built a heart-shaped pond, constructing the main hall in the center of the four ponds to enshrine the statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, which was carved by Gyoki Bosatsu himself. This marks the origin of Daichi-ji Temple. The temple was originally founded under the Tendai sect, but during the Kamakura period (1185-1333), it was replaced by Zen Buddhism. Later, during the Warring States period, the temple was destroyed by war, and miraculously, only the statue of Shakyamuni Buddha carved by Gyoki Bosatsu remained.
In the Edo period, over 100 years ago, the temple was revived through the efforts of Zen Master Jōgen Jikō, and it was officially named "Daichi-ji." The main hall, rebuilt during the Edo period, still perfectly retains its original appearance.
The biggest highlight of Daichi-ji Temple is the Horai Garden, which embodies the essence of Zen. It is said that this karesansui (dry landscape) garden was created by Kobori Enshū, a tea master, architect, and garden designer from the early Edo period. From late May to mid-June, the azaleas bloom, in summer the trees provide shade, and in autumn the maple leaves turn vibrant colors. In winter, the garden presents a serene and beautiful purple-brown hue. Visitors can enjoy various charming scenes that change with the seasons. The garden also features a "Suikinkutsu," a traditional Japanese garden technique, where one can quietly listen to the soothing sound of dripping water, providing a healing experience for the soul.
