Amida-ji, Buddhist temple in Hōfu, Japan
Amida-ji is a Buddhist temple in Hofu set on a mountain slope with seven buildings, including two bathing structures. The grounds are known for hosting approximately 4,000 hydrangea plants across eighty varieties.
In 1186, a monk named Chogen was sent to Yamaguchi by Emperor Go-Shirakawa and soon after established Amida-ji as a branch of Todai-ji Temple. This connection to one of Japan's major temples shaped the site's early development.
Guardian statues created by master sculptor Kaikei stand within the temple complex and show impressive detail from the early Kamakura period. These works shape the experience as visitors walk through the temple grounds.
The temple is accessible by Bocho Bus from Hofu Station's North Exit, with a journey of about 20 minutes to the Amidaji stop. Morning visits allow more time to explore the full grounds before daylight fades.
The grounds preserve Japan's oldest treasure pagoda dating to 1197, which holds a crystal tower inside with Buddha relics. The relics were originally brought from China by Chogen centuries ago.
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