徳星寺, Buddhist temple in Koga, Japan
Tokushoji is a Buddhist temple in Koga's Yokoyama district with a main hall and an octagonal Daishi hall built according to traditional Japanese temple design. The grounds contain multiple structures arranged in the classical layout typical of temples from this region and period.
The temple was founded in 1275 during the Kamakura period as a prayer site for the Koga Kubo branch of the Ashikaga clan. Its role in the region changed when this family line declined in influence during the 16th century.
The temple serves as a gathering place for monthly religious ceremonies that remain central to local practice and worship. Visitors can observe how the space transitions between quiet personal prayer and communal ritual occasions throughout the year.
The temple sits roughly two kilometers from Koga Station and is accessible on foot or by bicycle, with free bike rentals available for visitors. The site also offers consultation services related to cemetery matters if you need assistance with those arrangements.
The temple grounds hold sand collected from all 88 temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage route, allowing visitors to complete the traditional sand-walking ritual without traveling across multiple islands. This feature offers a meaningful spiritual practice for those who cannot undertake the full pilgrimage journey.
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