Kōjō-ji, Buddhist temple in Aoi district, Obama, Japan
Kōjō-ji is a Buddhist temple in Obama with a main hall called the Hondō and a three-story pagoda, both featuring roofs covered in cypress bark shingles. These structures form the focal point of the temple grounds and can be seen from various angles throughout the property.
The temple was founded in 806 by General Sakanoue no Tamuramaro, a military leader of the early Heian era. The main buildings visible today were reconstructed during the Kamakura period, when many older structures were renewed or replaced.
The temple houses carved wooden statues from the Heian period, including figures of Yakushi Nyorai and Fudō Myōō visible inside the halls. These sculptures reflect the skill of artisans who created works meant to inspire devotion over many centuries.
The temple is located about 15 minutes on foot from Obama Station and is easy to reach by walking. The site sits on a hillside, so expect some steps and slightly elevated terrain along the path.
At the base of the hill stands a cave linked to legends of Nun Yaobikuni, who long ago planted camellias at the site. She later retreated into the cave to spend her remaining years in meditation.
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