The temple was founded at the command of Emperor Uda to protect the imperial household from fire.
Tessai Tomioka, a famous Meiji-period artist, lived at the temple and left behind a large collection of his paintings and calligraphic works.
The temple is home to the Tessai Museum, which showcases a rotating selection of Tomioka’s artistic legacy.
The name 'Sanpo Kojin' refers to the deity of the three treasures of Buddhism, who is also worshipped as the protector of the hearth.
The temple grounds contain a rare collection of trees and garden spaces that are maintained throughout the year.
Many visitors bring charms from previous years to the temple's dedicated incineration areas for formal disposal.
Seicho-ji, widely known as Kiyoshikojin Seicho-ji, is a historic Shingon Buddhist temple in Takarazuka founded in 896 AD by the priest Gasho under the order of Emperor Uda. The temple is primarily dedicated to the Kitchen God, Sanpo Kojin, and serves as a site for protection against fire and for business prosperity. The expansive temple grounds feature multiple structures, including the Hondo (Main Hall), the Tekkodo, and the Ichijō-ji Hall. It houses significant cultural artifacts, including works by the renowned painter Tessai Tomioka, who resided in the temple for many years. The approach to the temple is lined with a long, sloping shopping street known for traditional craft shops and restaurants. Visitors often engage in the tradition of exchanging old copper coins for new ones at the Kojin-san shrine to bring good fortune. The site is noted for its lush natural surroundings, which shift significantly with the seasons. It remains an active religious site that integrates architectural heritage with local community culture.
The vermilion-lacquered gate and the stone staircase leading up to the main precinct offer the most iconic views.
Wear comfortable, slip-on walking shoes as you will be frequently removing them to enter various temple buildings.
Allocate extra time to explore the many small pottery and craft stalls along the approach leading up to the main gate.
Visit the Tessai Museum on the temple grounds if you are interested in modern Japanese ink wash painting.
Attempting to drive up to the main temple gate is discouraged due to extremely narrow streets and limited parking; use the public parking areas provided below.
Maintain a quiet volume when near prayer halls, remove hats and sunglasses before entering buildings, and do not photograph the interior of altars or sacred statues.
