Inaba-Kokubun-ji, Buddhist temple in Tottori, Tottori
Inaba-Kokubun-ji is a Buddhist temple in Tottori belonging to the Ōbaku school of Buddhism. The buildings are simply designed, with the main hall holding statues and paintings that tell stories of Buddhist teachings and local history, while old stone monuments on the grounds mark where original structures once stood.
The temple was built around 741 as part of an imperial plan to spread Buddhism across every province of Japan. After the Meiji Restoration, the temple lost importance, but archaeological findings show the original site covered about 220 square meters and contained a pagoda.
The temple is dedicated to Bhaiṣajyaguru, the Medicine Buddha, which shapes its rituals and practices. People come here to pray for health and healing, making it a place for personal wishes and quiet reflection.
The temple is near Tsunoi Station and easy to reach, with free parking and clear signs for visitors. The grounds are open most days from early morning until late afternoon and invite a peaceful walk.
A legend tells of a dog that died between this temple and a nearby temple, and a stone monument called 'Inuzuka' marks this story, built during the Edo period. Nearby is also the Hokkeji site, where a nun's temple likely stood and old stones are preserved there.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
