Zensui-ji, National Treasure Buddhist temple in Iwane, Konan, Japan
Zensui-ji is a Buddhist temple in Konan and a National Treasure of Japan featuring remarkable architectural design. The main building displays irimoya-zukuri style with a seven by five bay structure and a roof covered in hinoki cypress bark.
The temple was established between 708 and 715 under the reign of Empress Genmei and originally called Wado-ji. The name changed later after an emperor found healing through the water from the temple spring.
The temple houses numerous Buddhist statues recognized as national cultural properties that showcase artistic skill across different periods. Visitors today can observe these carved figures and understand how they shaped the site's spiritual character over centuries.
The temple is best reached via Mikumo Station on the JR West Kusatsu Line, from where a walk is necessary to arrive at the site. Visitors should allow time to explore the grounds at their own pace as there are several buildings and areas to take in.
One of the carved statues housed here was crafted in the 10th century and demonstrates the site's long artistic continuity. This early sculpture allows visitors today to trace the evolution of Buddhist artistic skill across centuries.
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