⛩️ Ganjoji Temple (Gifu)

Ganseiji Temple is located in the easternmost part of Gifu City, in Oodori, and is the 16th sacred site of the Mino Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage and the 19th site of the Mino Shikoku Pilgrimage. A monk named Taichu relocated a statue of Buddha, worshipped by the local feudal lord Murakuni Otoko, to this site about 1300 years ago and built the temple. During the Nara period, Emperor Shomu ordered the establishment of various halls and named it Ganseiji Temple. The temple has been burned down multiple times due to wars and was rebuilt in 1653 by the monk Yuuhen. Within the temple grounds, there is a cherry blossom tree known as "Chujo Hime Seigan Zakura," which, according to temple legends, is estimated to be around 1250 years old. The tree produces 20 to 30 petals and has been designated as a national natural monument. It is said that the name originates from the fact that after Chujo Hime visited the temple, her worries and fatigue from her long journey were alleviated, making it a symbol of protection for women’s health, and it is deeply revered by the public. Every year in early April during the cherry blossom season, magnificent blossoms bloom, enchanting visitors. Ganseiji Temple enshrines various Buddhist statues, including the "Eleven-Headed Kannon Bodhisattva Standing Statue," the "Dainichi Nyorai Sitting Statue," and several others, including a 3-meter tall "Nio Guardian Statue," all of which are designated important cultural properties of Gifu Prefecture.

The temple located in the easternmost part of Gifu City, Oodori. It is said to have been founded 1,300 years ago by Taichu, and later, Emperor Shomu ordered the reconstruction of various halls and named it Ganjou-ji. After being destroyed in multiple wars, it was later rebuilt by the monk Yuuhen. The giant cherry blossom tree within the grounds, known as "Chujo-hime Seigan Zakura," is designated as a national natural monument. Additionally, there are other important cultural properties designated by the prefecture, such as the "Standing Statue of Eleven-faced Kannon."