Taihei-ji Temple

"Records state this ancient Buddhist temple was founded in 803 by Heian period court noble Sakanoue no Tamuramaro. It is said the temple was founded to pray for success during a campaign to subjugate Hokkaido, and to enshrine a thousand-armed statue of Avalokitesvara. Visitors to the grounds can enjoy seasonal sights, including dogtooth violets in spring, fresh verdure in early summer, and fall foliage in autumn. The grave of Oshika-hime, the model for inaugural Naoki Prize-winner Matsutaro Kawaguchi's novel ""Hebihime-sama,"" is also located on the grounds. The temple's Deva gate, moved here in 1672, has been designated a Cultural Property by the city."