Bitchu Kokubunji Temple (備中国分寺)

Flow of the course

About this spot

One of the provincial temples built nationwide at the behest of Emperor Shomu during the Nara period, the five-story pagoda standing amid verdant rice paddies is known as a landscape symbolizing the Kibi route. At approximately 34 meters tall, this pagoda, the only five-story pagoda rebuilt during the Edo period in Okayama Prefecture, is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. The beautiful wooden joinery impresses whether viewed from close range or from a distance across the paddies. The surrounding area is developed as the Kibi no Fudoki Hill, where seasonal flowers such as mustard blossoms, sainfoin, and cosmos color the pagoda throughout the year—a composition that photographers dream of capturing. A leisurely walk along field paths and tree-lined avenues allows you to sense the traces of ancient Kibi, when government offices and temples dominated this central region, amid peaceful rural scenery.

Tips

Free parking available. The pagoda area has little shade, so a hat is recommended. To capture both the pagoda and rice paddies in one frame, view from a distance along a field path. Other historical sites such as Komori-zuka Kofun (tomb) are scattered nearby; if time allows, consider visiting them.

Best time to visit

Plan for approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. Afternoon light at an angle creates shadows in the pagoda's wooden structure, making photos most beautiful.

Access & map

〒719-1123 Okayama Prefecture, Soja City, Kaminabayashi 1046