Kōtai-ji, Buddhist temple in Teramachi district, Nagasaki, Japan
Kōtai-ji is a Buddhist temple in the Teramachi district with a main hall housing the Buddha statue and several connected buildings arranged around a central meditation courtyard. The layout reflects traditional Zen temple design with living quarters for monks, a meditation hall, and support structures spread across the site.
The temple was established in 1608 as the first of its Buddhist sect to be built in Japan, marking an important moment in the country's religious history. It emerged during an era when alternative beliefs faced significant restrictions.
The temple served as a meeting place between Japanese and Chinese monks for centuries, a connection visible in how the buildings are arranged and how daily practices still reflect this influence.
The temple is located near streetcar stops and easily accessible on foot, with paths clearly marked throughout the grounds. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and loose clothing, as exploring the site involves walking around the various buildings and courtyards.
A particularly notable feature is the 3.4-meter-tall statue of Vairochana Buddha representing cosmic truth, which stands as a rare artistic example in the Japanese context. This sculpture demonstrates the specialized religious craftsmanship that the temple has maintained since its founding.
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