This temple was built over a period of about 7 years starting in 1836.

During the Nara period, it was established as Shima Kokubunji by Emperor Shomu's edict to expand Buddhism and follow the edict of one temple per country. (The current building was rebuilt in 13.) Every year on May 5th, the flower festival is held. The principal image, a seated statue of Yakushi Nyorai, has been designated as a prefectural cultural property. The book is opened once every 8 years.