The beautiful Nakayamadera Temple is the perfect place to pray for safe and healthy childbirth. Nestled in Takarazuka city, this temple has been revered since ancient times as a sacred site dedicated to the goddess of mercy. Devotees from the Imperial family, samurai clan leaders and pregnant women alike come to the temple to offer their prayers, while parents with babies return to give thanks when their wishes have been granted. In addition to its spiritual offerings, the temple also hosts spectacular events such as the Hoshikudari Festival on August 9, where all the Kannon of the 33 Saikoku Kannon Pilgrimage sites are said to gather here; and the thrilling Tsuinashiki ritual together with the Takarazuka Revue on Setsubun. It's also a great spot for taking in the beauty of seasonal flowers and appreciating the 700 Rakan statues on display in the Gohyaku-rakandō Hall. Nakayamadera truly dazzles at night too, with the illumination of the Daigantō pagoda and the distinctive blue five-story pagoda. With so much to explore, it’s an unforgettable experience to visit this unique temple!