Suo Kokubunji Temple (周防国分寺)

Flow of the course

About this spot

One of the provincial temples established throughout Japan by imperial edict of Emperor Shomu, this ancient temple is one of very few in the nation whose buildings remain standing on the original founding grounds, virtually unchanged since creation. The stately golden hall (kondō) with its hip-and-gable roof was rebuilt through the patronage of Mouri family, lords of Choshu Domain, and is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. Inside the hall stand important cultural property Buddha statues dating back to the Heian period, including a Yakushi Nyorai seated statue and Nikko and Gakkō Bodhisattva standing statues, which you can view up close. Surrounded by pine-lined paths and earthen walls, the grounds are filled with a quiet stillness—an atmosphere of prayer quite different from the bustle of Tenmangu.

Tips

About a 15-minute walk from Hofu Tenmangu Shrine. Viewing the golden hall requires checking in at the reception desk, and viewing times are fixed, so it's wise to confirm in advance. The grounds are freely accessible. You can also obtain a temple seal stamp (goshuin).

Best time to visit

Approximately 1 hour. Morning light from the east illuminates the golden hall, allowing you to view the Buddha statues in a calm atmosphere.

Access & map

〒747-0021 Yamaguchi Prefecture, Hofu City, Kokubunji Town 2-67