Amano Imperial Palace (Kongoji Temple) Complete Guide | The Complete Picture of a Historic Sacred Site Where Both the Northern and Southern Courts Coexisted
Amanosan Kongoji Temple, located in Amano-cho, Kawachinagano City, Osaka Prefecture, is a historical temple that served as an important stage during the Nanboku-cho period (Northern and Southern Courts period) as the “Amano Imperial Palace.” It is known as the site where the temporary imperial palace (temporary residence) of Emperor Go-Murakami, the second emperor of the Southern Court, was located, and where three retired emperors of the Northern Court were simultaneously imprisoned—an extremely rare situation in Japanese history. This article provides a detailed explanation of Amano Imperial Palace, from its historical background to its cultural properties and visiting information.
What is Amano Imperial Palace? | Basic Information and Historical Significance
Amano Imperial Palace refers to the temporary residence of the Southern Court located at Kongoji Temple in Kawachinagano City, Osaka Prefecture, during the Nanboku-cho period. An imperial palace is a temporary residence where the emperor stays during imperial visits. Amano Imperial Palace was not merely a temporary residence, but functioned as the de facto political center for approximately five years. ### Overview of Amanoyama Kongoji Temple
- Location: 996 Amanomachi, Kawachinagano City, Osaka Prefecture
- Sect: Shingon Omuro School, Head Temple
- Mountain Name: Amanoyama
- Principal Image: Dainichi Nyorai
- Alternate Name: Nyōnin Kōya (Women’s Kōya)
- Founded: Nara period (Tenpyō era)
- Founder: Gyōki Bodhisattva (by imperial decree of Emperor Shōmu)
Kongoji Temple is said to have been founded by the high-ranking priest Gyōki during the Nara period at the imperial decree of Emperor Shōmu. Later, it became known as a place where Kūkai, Kōbō Daishi, practiced esoteric Buddhism. During the Heian period, it developed as an important training ground for Shingon esoteric Buddhism, and because women were allowed to visit, it earned the nickname “Nyōnin Kōya” (Women’s Kōya).
The Nanboku-chō Period and the Establishment of the Amano Imperial Palace
Background to the Split of the Northern and Southern Courts
In 1336 (Kenmu 3rd year/Engen 1st year), Emperor Go-Daigo fled to Yoshino, marking the beginning of the Nanboku-chō period, in which the Northern Court in Kyoto (Emperor Kōmyō) and the Southern Court in Yoshino (Emperor Go-Daigo) coexisted. This turbulent period lasted for approximately 60 years, engulfing all of Japan in conflict over the two imperial courts.
Emperor Go-Murakami and the Amano Imperial Palace
On October 28, Shōhei 9th year/Bunwa 3rd year (1354), Emperor Go-Murakami, the second emperor of the Southern Court, moved his imperial palace from Yoshino to Kongō-ji Temple on Mount Amano in Kawachi Province. There were several reasons for this relocation:
- Strategic Location: Kawachi Province was a strategic point in the Kinai region, offering an excellent location for both advancing into Kyoto and defending it.
- Economic Base: Kongoji Temple possessed vast temple lands, enabling it to provide economic support to the Southern Court.
- Religious Authority: As a major Shingon Esoteric Buddhism temple, it religiously underpinned the legitimacy of the Imperial Court.
- Defensive Facilities: Located in a mountainous area, it functioned as a natural fortress.
Emperor Go-Murakami conducted state affairs at the Amano Imperial Palace for approximately five years, until December of Shohei 14/Enbun 4 (1359). During this period, the Mani-in of Kongoji Temple served as the Emperor’s residence, and the Jikido (refectory) was used as the government office.
Political Activities of the Southern Court
During the Amano Imperial Palace period, the Southern Court engaged in active military and diplomatic activities. The “Shōhei Unification” of 1352 (Shōhei 7/Kannō 2) was one of the periods when the Southern Court’s power was strongest, as they temporarily recaptured Kyoto and recovered the Three Sacred Treasures. The Amano Imperial Palace functioned as the command center for these political and military activities.
Imprisonment of the Three Retired Emperors of the Northern Court | A Unique Situation Where Both the Northern and Southern Courts Coexisted
The main reason why the Amano Imperial Palace is an extremely rare place in history is that it was both a temporary residence for the Southern Court and a place where the three retired emperors of the Northern Court were imprisoned.
Detention of the Three Retired Emperors of the Northern Court
In 1352 (Shōhei 7/Kannō 2), when the Southern Court army occupied Kyoto, they captured the three retired emperors of the Northern Court—Emperor Kōgon, Emperor Kōmyō, and Emperor Sukō—and Crown Prince Naohito, and took them to Kongōji Temple on Mount Amano. The three retired emperors were confined to Kanzoin Temple within Kongoji Temple, spending approximately four years there (1352-1356).
Simultaneous Existence of the Northern and Southern Courts
Between 1354 and 1356, the following situation arose at Amanoyama Kongoji Temple:
- Maniin: The temporary residence (imperial quarters) of Emperor Go-Murakami of the Southern Court
- Kanzoin: The place of confinement (imperial quarters) of the three retired emperors of the Northern Court
This was an unprecedented and unique situation in Japanese history, with emperors and retired emperors of both opposing courts simultaneously existing within the same temple. During this period, the Southern Court attempted to use the three retired emperors as a bargaining chip in peace negotiations with the Northern Court, but ultimately, in 1356, the three retired emperors were released and returned to Kyoto.
The Connection Between Emperor Kōgon and Kongōji Temple
Interestingly, Emperor Kōgon, the first emperor of the Northern Court, became a monk in his later years, and after his death in 1364, a portion of his remains were interred at Kongōji Temple. Even today, the “Emperor Kōgon’s Remains Site,” managed by the Imperial Household Agency, stands within the temple grounds, a testament to the irony of history: the place where he was once imprisoned became one of his final resting places.
The End of the Amano Imperial Palace and the Suffering of Kongōji Temple
Relocation of the Imperial Palace
In December 1359, Emperor Go-Murakami left the Amano Imperial Palace and moved to the Sumiyoshi Imperial Palace (Sumiyoshi Ward, Osaka City). He later returned to Yoshino and died there in 1368. The Amano Imperial Palace’s role lasted only about five years, but this period was crucial in the history of the Southern Court.
Attack by Hatakeyama Kunikiyo
In 1360 (Shohei 15th year/Enbun 5th year), forces led by Hatakeyama Kunikiyo of the shogunate attacked Kongoji Temple, burning down over 40 of its sub-temples. This was a retaliatory attack against Kongoji Temple, an important base for the Southern Court. While many buildings and cultural artifacts were lost in this conflict, the main halls escaped destruction and remain to this day.
Kongoji Temple After the Unification of the Northern and Southern Courts
In 1392 (Genchu 9th year/Meitoku 3rd year), with the unification of the Northern and Southern Courts, Kongoji Temple regained its character as a purely religious institution. It continued to prosper as an important temple of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism from the Muromachi period onward, accumulating many cultural artifacts.
Remains of the Amano Imperial Palace and Important Cultural Properties
The current Kongoji Temple retains numerous buildings and cultural properties that convey the atmosphere of the Amano Imperial Palace era.
Mani-in Temple (Site of the Southern Court’s Imperial Residence)
Mani-in Temple, which served as the residence of Emperor Go-Murakami, still remains within the grounds of Kongoji Temple. Although the building was reconstructed in later periods, its historical value as the Southern Court’s imperial residence is immeasurable.
Visiting Information:
- Visiting days: Sundays and public holidays only
- Advance confirmation is recommended
Dining Hall (Site of the Government Office)
The dining hall, used as the government office of the Southern Court, is a Kamakura period building designated as an Important Cultural Property. It tells the story of how a building that was originally a dining place for monks temporarily became a place where important national political decisions were made.
Architectural Features:
- Construction: Kamakura period (13th century)
- Structure: Irimoya-zukuri (hip-and-gable roof), tiled roof
- Scale: Seven bays in length, four bays in width
- Designation: Nationally designated Important Cultural Property
Kanzoin Temple (Site of the Northern Court’s Imperial Residence)
Kanzoin Temple, where the three retired emperors of the Northern Court were imprisoned, still exists and can be viewed along with its beautiful garden. Located close to Maniin Temple, the Southern Court’s imperial residence, it evokes the tense atmosphere of the time.
Highlights of Kanzoin Temple:
- Muromachi period Shoin-style architecture
- Pond garden with strolling paths
- Seasonal scenery (especially beautiful autumn foliage)
Other Important Cultural Properties
Kongoji Temple possesses numerous valuable buildings dating back to before the Amano Imperial Palace period:
- Kondo (Main Hall) (National Treasure): Late Heian period architecture
- Tahoto (Pagoda): Elegant pagoda from the Kamakura period
- Romon (Gate Tower): Imposing gate from the Muromachi period
- Shoro (Bell Tower): Containing medieval architectural style
Most of these buildings are designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan, which is why Kongoji Temple as a whole is called a “treasure trove of buildings.”
Cultural Assets such as Buddhist Statues and Paintings
Kongoji Temple possesses not only buildings but also numerous Buddhist statues, paintings, and calligraphic works:
- Seated Statue of Dainichi Nyorai (Main Image): An excellent example of Esoteric Buddhist sculpture from the Heian period
- Statue of Fudo Myoo (Acala): A Kamakura period sculpture designated as an Important Cultural Property
- Ryokai Mandala: A masterpiece of Esoteric Buddhist art
- Emperor Go-Murakami’s Calligraphy: A valuable historical document from the Amano Imperial Palace period
Some of these cultural assets can be viewed during special public viewings.
Kongoji Temple as a Women’s Koyasan
Kongoji Temple is also known by the alternative name “Women’s Koyasan.” While Mount Koya was off-limits to women, Kongoji Temple has long permitted women to visit.
A Sacred Site Open to Women
Since the Heian period, many female believers have visited Kongoji Temple and received the teachings of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism. This was an extremely progressive stance for its time, demonstrating that Kongoji Temple was a temple widely open to the common people.
Women and the Nanboku-cho War
During the Nanboku-cho period, many women were caught up in the war and lost their husbands and children. Kongoji Temple, as the Amano Imperial Palace, is thought to have been a place of prayer and a spiritual haven for these women.
The Garden of the Amano Imperial Palace | Beauty of the Seasons
The garden of Kongoji Temple is an important element that conveys the atmosphere of the Amano Imperial Palace era.
Kanzoin Garden
This is a pond-centered strolling garden, thought to have been created during the Muromachi period. Visitors can stroll through it while imagining the scenery that the three retired emperors of the Northern Court viewed while in confinement.
Seasonal Highlights:
- Spring: A beautiful spectacle of cherry blossoms and fresh greenery
- Summer: The beauty of deep green and moss
- Autumn: Known as a famous spot for autumn foliage
- Winter: The serene beauty of a snowy landscape
Natural Environment of the Temple Grounds
Kongoji Temple is nestled in the foothills of Mount Amano, surrounded by abundant nature. Many ancient and giant trees contribute to a landscape harmoniously integrated with historical buildings. The temple is particularly bustling with visitors during the autumn foliage season.
Access and Visiting Information for Amano Imperial Palace
Transportation Access
By Train:
- Get off at Kawachinagano Station on the Nankai Koya Line or Kintetsu Nagano Line.
- Take the Nankai Bus bound for Amanoyama for approximately 15 minutes, get off at Amanoyama bus stop, and walk for approximately 3 minutes.
By Car:
- Approximately 30 minutes from Mihara Kita IC on the Hanwa Expressway.
- Parking available (free).
Visiting Information
Visiting Hours:
- 9:00~16:30 (Last entry at 16:00)
- Open all year round (except during memorial services)
Admission Fee:
- Adults: 300 yen
- Junior and Senior High School Students: 200 yen
- Elementary School Students: 100 yen
- Special viewings (such as Mani-in Temple) may incur separate fees.
Notes:
- Mani-in Temple (site of the Southern Court’s temporary residence) is only open to visitors on Sundays and public holidays.
- It is recommended to check in advance for special opening periods.
- Photography is only permitted in designated areas.
Nearby Attractions
When visiting Amano Imperial Palace, we recommend also visiting other historical sites in Kawachinagano City:
- Kanshin-ji Temple: A temple associated with Kusunoki Masashige, an important base for the Southern Court.
- Enmei-ji Temple: One of the three temples of Kawachinagano.
- Birthplace of Kusunoki Masashige: The hometown of a loyal retainer of the Southern Court.
- Akasaka Castle Ruins: The site of Kusunoki Masashige’s castle.
Visiting these sites will give you a deeper understanding of the history of Kawachi during the Nanboku-cho period.
What Amano Imperial Palace Tells Us Today
Lessons from History
The history of Amano Imperial Palace teaches us much about conflict and coexistence, war and peace. The fact that the opposing forces of the Southern and Northern Courts coexisted in the same location suggests the possibility of dialogue and coexistence.
Importance of Cultural Property Preservation
Although many buildings were lost in the attack by Hatakeyama Kunikiyo, numerous cultural properties have been preserved to the present day. This is a testament to the efforts of successive generations of monks and local residents, and illustrates the importance of cultural property preservation.
Regional Pride
For Kawachinagano City, the Amano Imperial Palace symbolizes the region’s history and culture. Local tourism promotion and history education centered around Kongoji Temple are conducted, making it a core element of regional identity.
Current Status and Challenges of Amano Imperial Palace Research
Academic Research
Research on the Amano Imperial Palace is progressing from multiple perspectives, including history, architectural history, and art history. In particular, in recent years, our understanding of the role of the Amano Imperial Palace in the political history of the Nanboku-cho period has deepened through the discovery and interpretation of new historical materials.
Unsolved Mysteries
On the other hand, the following unresolved issues remain:
- The detailed reasons why Emperor Go-Murakami chose the Amano Imperial Palace
- The reality of daily contact between people of the Southern and Northern Courts
- The specific political decision-making process during the Amano Imperial Palace period
- The relationship between the local community and the Imperial Court
Future research is expected to unravel these mysteries.
Digital Archiving
Digital archiving of cultural properties and historical materials held by Kongoji Temple is underway, creating an environment where more people can learn about the history of the Amano Imperial Palace.
Summary | The Historical Value of the Amano Imperial Palace
The Amano Imperial Palace played an extremely unique role in Japanese history during the turbulent Nanboku-cho period, serving as the political center of the Southern Court and the place of confinement for the three retired emperors of the Northern Court.
The fact that both opposing courts existed within the same temple speaks to the complex political situation at the time, and yet a certain order was maintained. Furthermore, the numerous surviving important cultural properties, including buildings and works of art, convey the culture and faith of the medieval period to the present day.
Kongoji Temple, a sacred site open to women as “Women’s Koyasan,” boasts beautiful gardens that change with the seasons, making it a valuable place to enjoy both historical exploration and nature appreciation. Located in a tranquil mountainous area within Osaka Prefecture, it offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city, allowing visitors to reflect on history.
Visiting Amano Imperial Palace is not merely sightseeing; it’s an experience that directly touches an important page in Japanese medieval history. Mani-in, where Emperor Go-Murakami conducted state affairs, Kanzo-in, where the three retired emperors of the Northern Court were imprisoned, and numerous other important cultural properties quietly yet eloquently speak of the turbulent times of over 600 years ago.
For those interested in the history of the Nanboku-cho period, those interested in Japanese cultural properties and gardens, and those seeking a peaceful environment to calm their minds, Amano Imperial Palace and Kongoji Temple are must-see destinations. I highly recommend visiting this historical site and experiencing this important turning point in Japanese history firsthand.
