Founded by prince shotoku, this is japan's first kannon temple. it enshrines the eleven-faced kannon, the deity believed to save women, as its principal image, and is popular as a temple for praying for safe childbirth and fertility, due to the anecdote that toyotomi hideyoshi was blessed with a child after visiting the temple. the vast grounds are dotted with many sights, including the rare blue five-story pagoda (seiryu pagoda), the gohyaku rakan hall, and the kodake jizo statue. escalators and elevators are also installed, so you can visit with peace of mind. the plum grove is at its best in march, and the temple is particularly crowded with worshippers.