Kōgen-ji, Buddhist temple in Nagahama, Japan.
Description
Kōgen-ji is a Buddhist temple in Nagahama that houses a wooden statue of the Eleven-Faced Kannon, carved from a single cypress log. The statue displays detailed facial features and flowing robes carved with careful precision.
History
The temple was founded in 736 during a disease outbreak, when monk Taicho carved the statue as a response to the crisis. Over centuries, it became an established place of worship drawing seekers of healing.
Culture
The temple centers on devotion to the Eleven-Faced Kannon, a deity embodying compassion and protection. Visitors today still come to pray before this figure, seeking blessings and healing.
Practical
The temple sits about ten minutes on foot from Takatsuki Station, making it accessible by a short walk. Daytime visits work best, as access patterns may vary seasonally and it is good to arrive while light is available.
Did you know?
The Eleven-Faced Kannon statue is one of only seven National Treasure designations of this type in Japan, reflecting exceptional craftsmanship and preservation. This rare status draws art enthusiasts and history seekers who recognize its place in the nation's cultural legacy.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Nagahama).
Chikubu Island
10.3 km
Nagahama Castle
11 km
Odani Castle
3.9 km
Tsukubusuma Shrine
10.5 km
Kurokabe square
10.7 km
Hōgon-ji
10.5 km
Daitsū-ji
10.5 km
Nagahama Railway Square
11.2 km
Kinomoto Jizo-in
3.7 km
Hōkoku Shrine
10.7 km
鶏足寺 (長浜市)
3.9 km
Keiunkan
11.3 km
Shana-in
10.7 kmSuga-jinja
9 km
Kurokabe Glass Shop
10.8 km
Kunitomo Gun Museum
8.3 km
Musée Narita
11.5 km
Odani Castle Sengoku Historical Museum
3.7 km
Shakudō-ji
3.7 km
Hokkoku Kaidō Andō House
10.9 km
Former Kaichi School
10.9 km
Kohoku Library
3.8 km
Kaiyodo Figure Museum Kurokabe Ryuyukan
10.8 km
Chizen-in
10.4 km
Gyokusen-ji
5.9 km
Shin Zenkō-ji
10.3 km
大澤寺
5.2 km
Main Shrine, Tsukubusuma-jinja
10.5 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes