興國寺, Buddhist temple in Yura, Japan
Kōkoku-ji temple sits on a hilltop with multiple structures including a main hall, bell tower, and study rooms arranged according to traditional temple layout principles. The buildings are connected by pathways that follow the natural slope of the land.
The temple was founded in 1227 and originally called Saihō-ji to honor the warrior Minamoto no Sanetomo. It received its current name in 1340 during Emperor Go-Murakami's reign.
The temple hosts an annual festival each January where giant masks are paraded through the grounds as part of local folk tradition that draws visitors from surrounding towns.
The temple is located in Yura town with parking available at the entrance for several vehicles. A 15-minute walk from the nearest train station is required, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
The temple claims to be the birthplace of Japanese soy sauce production, with techniques introduced by its founder who studied in China. This culinary development emerged from monastic activities and later became central to Japanese cooking traditions.
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