The Japanese Ikko-ikki were mobs of peasant farmers, monks, Shinto priests and local nobles, who protested against samurai rule in the 15th and 16th centuries. They were the followers of the Jodo Shinshu (True Pure Land) sect of Buddhism and held Rennyo, the well known revivalist of the sect, in great respect.

In 1496, Rennyo retreated to an area which was at the mouth of the Yodo River, on the coast of the Seto Inland Sea. There, he built a small temple for his personal use. However, soon, other devotees of the sect followed him and the temple was expanded to cater to the growing needs of the population. Also, a number of homes and other buildings were erected to house the new residents. Ishiyama Hongan-ji, a cathedral-fortress came up by the time of Rennyo's death, three years later.

In 1532, when the Yamashina Mido in Kyoto was destroyed, the Ishiyama Hongan-ji became the most important temple for the Ikko. The location of the cathedral- fortress made it difficult for enemies to enter it. Also, at any given point of time, around hundred monks were up and alert, keeping a watch out on enemies. Any sense of danger could lead to ten thousand of warrior monks coming out to protect the cathedral -fortress, and all this just by ringing a bell. The forces of Oda Nobunaga, a powerful feudal lord, attacked Hongan-ji in 1570, however, due to its location, the fortress managed to keep the enemy at bay for around 11 years. In 1580, the Abbot Kosa (Kennyo) was persuaded to surrender, but before surrendering the entire complex was set on fire so as to deny Nobunaga any material benefit from the victory.

Three years later, the most distinguished general of Oda Nobunaga, started the construction of the Osaka castle at the site. The Osaka Castle, that stands today, was constructed in 1931 and renovated in 1997. It is a major tourist attraction today in Osaka offering a fantastic view of the Osaka city. There is also a museum consisting of videos, holograms, models, and artifacts to describe the life and times of Toyotomi Hideyoshi and the history of the castle. You can also have a look at the samurai armour and gear; models of Toyotomi's Gold Tea Room and Osaka Castle during the Toyotomi Era, and scenes of the war that took place between Toyotomi and Tokugawa forces.


Osaka
The capital of Osaka Prefecture, Osaka is the third largest city of Japan located in the Kansai region. In terms of population, the city is next only to Tokyo and Yokohama. The city is also known for being an international business centre. For tourists, Osaka offers loads of attractions including the oldest state temple in Japan, one of the best aquariums of the country and the sole Universal Studios outside the United States. Also, the Kansai International airport of Osaka acts as a major entranceway to the tourists. A whole lot of them first come here and then move on to explore the other cities in the surroundings.


Other Attractions

• Shitennoji Temple : The temple was founded in 593 by Prince Shotoku who holds the honour of introducing Buddhism in Japan. The temple is, officially, the oldest temple in Japan. After its establishment, the temple was destroyed many a times by wars and fires, however, everytime, the reconstruction work ensured that the temple was restored to its original shape. Even today, you will find the Main Gate, the five-story Buddhist Pagoda, the Main Golden Hall, and the Lecture Hall within the complex. Prince Shotoku is held in reverence till date and a number of devotees flock in to pay him respect. There is also a garden which was first laid out during the Tokugawa regime. The temple is open all the time, but the garden is open only from 10am-4pm.