VISIT KOBE

Mayasan Tenjoji Temple stands atop Mt. Maya in the Rokko mountains, surrounded by nature’s four seasons. From this perch in the sky on a clear day, you can see all the way to Awaji Island, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and Shodoshima Island.

Tenjoji is the only temple in Japan built as a dedication for Maya, mother of Buddha. History says it was established by High Monk Hodo from India, at the behest of Emperor Kotoku in 646 AD.

Maya, as the birth mother of Buddha, embodies the protection of women. In particular, she is believed to be the guardian Buddha of safe childbirth, conception and parenting. The name of the mountain has its origins in this story.