百済寺

Baigai-ji is a Buddhist temple in Kōryō featuring a three-story pagoda with central wooden doors and latticed windows along the sides. The structure is covered with traditional tile roofing that gives the complex its distinctive appearance.

The temple first appears in historical records from 639 CE, when Emperor Jomei ordered the construction of a palace and temple complex. This early founding reflects its importance during the early period of Buddhism in Japan.

The main hall, called Taishokukan, displays large Buddhist statues of protective and compassionate deities that came from a nearby Shinto shrine. These figures remain central to how people interact with the place today.

The temple is located about 3 kilometers south of Matsuzuka Station and has a parking area that accommodates around 220 cars and 20 buses. This substantial parking capacity makes it easy to visit the grounds.

The grounds contain the Sanskrit Pool, which local tradition connects to the famous monk Kukai, founder of the Shingon school of Buddhism. This site draws visitors interested in this spiritual connection.