Nakayama-dera

Nakayama-dera (中山寺 Nakayama-dera) is a Buddhist temple in Takarazuka, Hyōgo, Japan established in the 6th century. It is the 24th temple in the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage. It is one of the most popular temples in the region.

History
The engi, or the official history of the temple, recorded that the temple was founded by Prince Shotoku, in the 6th century.

Present-day buildings of this temple were mainly built by Toyotomi Hideyori in the 17th century. Hideyori was a son of Toyotomi Hideyoshi who unified Japan in the 16th century.

Objects of worship
The principal object of worship (shintai) at the temple is a Jūichimen Kannon, or the Goddess of Mercy with eleven heads. It is believed the Kannon has the power to give babies and an easy delivery.

Access
The railway stations near the entrance of the temple are Nakayama-kannon Station on the Hankyu Railway Takarazuka Line and Nakayamadera Station on the JR West Fukuchiyama Line (JR Takarazuka Line).