It was established in 1606 by the nun Kōdai-in (often known by the title Kita no Mandokoro), who was the widow of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, to pray for her late husband. The principal image is a statue of Shaka.
The temple possesses a number of objects designated as Important Cultural Assets. Among these are the Main Gate and the Spirit Hall, noted for its use of maki-e. Lacquerware has a tradition at this temple.[2] The temple is nicknamed the "maki-e temple". One of the maki-e patterns used on a natsumetea utensil is called Kōdai-ji bun natsume (高台寺文棗), featuring the imperial chrysanthemum seal and the paulownia seal of the regent.[3][4][5]
The treasury also holds paintings, including one of Hideyoshi, as well as textiles, and a bronze bell with an inscription dating it to 1606.