Awaji-Kokubun-ji, Buddhist temple in Minamiawaji, Japan

Awaji-Kokubun-ji is a Ritsu-sect temple situated on a river terrace along the Mihara River bank in southern Awaji Island, near where the provincial capital once stood. The foundation stones of the Nara-period pagoda received National Historic Site designation in 1951 and remain accessible for public viewing.

Emperor Shōmu ordered kokubunji temples in 741 after a smallpox epidemic; Awaji's was built later, with roof tiles suggesting the late Nara period. A 756 record urged its completion, and it was finished by 775. The 1340 Shaka Nyōrai statue dates from a later revival; the temple declined in the Muromachi period, was rebuilt in 1525, burned in the Tenshō era, and revived in 1665–66 under Tōshōdai-ji.

The honzon is a 294.8-cm wooden seated Shaka Nyorai dated by an ink inscription on its back to 1340, a National Important Cultural Property since 1901. Among the provincial kokubun-ji, Awaji alone still keeps the original type of main image. The temple also holds a 53.7-cm Heian-period flying Hiten statue, its arms lost and bearing burn marks.

The site sits on elevated ground that can become muddy during wet weather, so sturdy footwear is advisable. Visitors should allow time to explore the foundation stones and surrounding terrain, especially if interested in the archaeological aspects of the location.

Archaeological excavations uncovered two specialized kilns that produced specific roof tiles used during the temple's early construction. These kilns reveal the craftsmanship and organization required to complete large building projects during the Nara period.