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Honpuku-ji is a temple of the Shingon sect, Omuro school, located on a small hill that offers a panoramic view of Osaka Bay. It was established around the late Heian period (794 – 1185). The most striking feature of the temple is the "Mizumido," designed by the world-renowned architect Tadao Ando.
Mizumido is built beneath a lotus pond, and to enter the hall, one must descend the stairs from the center of the lotus pond. Inside the hall, the principal Buddha, Yakushi Nyorai, is an important cultural property of Awaji City. Visiting this hall brings many surprises and emotions. Sunlight streams into the hall, creating a dreamlike atmosphere; the scenery becomes even more dazzling and enchanting when the setting sun casts a red glow over the entire hall; and after the visit, ascending the stairs gives the illusion of having arrived in a city in the sky.
Among the many lotus flowers floating in the pond, there is also the very rare Oga Lotus. This is an ancient variety of lotus discovered from strata dating back about 2000 years. During the blooming season, the lotus flowers rise above the water, transforming the pond into a sea of vibrant colors. The best time to view the water lilies is from May to September, while the optimal viewing period for the Oga Lotus and other lotus flowers is from June to July.
