Hinokuma-dera

Hinokuma-dera was a Buddhist temple in Asuka built on grounds containing several ancient foundations and structural remains. Archaeological excavations have revealed the original arrangement of religious buildings and their internal spaces, showing how early Japanese temple complexes were organized.

The temple was founded in 588 under Soga no Umako, a powerful political figure of that era. After the imperial capital moved, the complex was later reconstructed as a new temple while connections to its origins remained.

The name combines two characters representing the local geography of the Asuka region where pilgrims once came to pray. Walking through the site today, you can sense how this location served as a spiritual center for people seeking Buddhist teachings in early Japan.

The grounds feature informative displays with glass cases positioned along walkways, showcasing objects found during earlier excavations. Wear comfortable shoes as you will walk over uneven terrain and partially exposed stone foundations throughout the site.

A bronze Great Buddha statue once stood in the temple halls, crafted by a master sculptor of that era. Though the statue is no longer at this location, its presence reflects how important sophisticated craftsmanship was to early Japanese religious spaces.