Heisenji Hakusan Shrine (平泉寺白山神社)

Flow of the course

About this spot

An ancient shrine founded by Great Master Taichō and serving as the Echizen-side center of Hakusan faith, called the 'Moss Shrine' for the beautiful moss covering its entire grounds. In the medieval period, it thrived as a major religious city with thousands of monks; after being completely destroyed by the Ikko Uprising in the Sengoku period, most of the grounds slept beneath moss. The former grounds are designated as a national historic site, where excavated medieval stone-paved paths and temple ruins can be viewed. The approach with cedarwoods and layered green moss is simply majestic, and the serene Mitarashi Pond—the source of the shrine's name—leaves a lasting impression.

Tips

The grounds feature primarily stone-paved and dirt paths; slippery after rain, so sturdy footwear is essential. Moss looks most beautiful on sunny days following rain. Admission is free. It's cool under the cedar canopy even in summer, so bring a light jacket.

Best time to visit

About 2 hours required. The dappled morning sunlight best showcases the moss's beauty.

Access & map

〒911-0822 Fukui Prefecture, Katsuyama City, Heisenji Town 56-63