In the region centered around present-day Fukui, Ishikawa, and Gifu, Mount Hakusan has long been an object of faith, with Hakusan shrines scattered throughout. Hakusan Heisenji Temple was established in 717 by Saicho as the center of Hakusan faith in Echizen Province (present-day Fukui Prefecture). At its peak during the Warring States period, it was a religious city that flourished greatly, with 8,000 warrior monks stationed there. However, it was burned down by the forces of the Ikko Ikki. In recent years, excavation work has been carried out vigorously, and the full picture of this massive religious city is gradually coming to light.
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