Kii Kokubun-ji, Provincial temple in Kinokawa, Japan.
Kii Kokubun-ji is a provincial temple on a square area on the north bank of the Kinokawa River in Wakayama Prefecture. The temple grounds include an archaeological park where excavated foundation remains of the original complex can be viewed.
The temple was established during Emperor Shomu's reign between 710 and 794. Its first documented mention in ancient texts appears in 756.
The main hall houses a statue of Yakushi Nyorai, who represents the Buddha of healing in Japanese Buddhist tradition. This figure shows what spiritual role the place held for believers in the past and continues to hold today.
The temple is within a 15-minute walk from Shimo-Isaka Station, making it easy to reach. Wearing comfortable shoes is recommended as the archaeological park invites exploration of the grounds.
Archaeological research uncovered foundation remains of a seven-story pagoda that once stood at the site. This discovery reveals how much grander the original complex was in its early years.
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