Mikawa Kokubunji, Buddhist temple in Toyokawa, Japan
Mikawa Kokubunji is a Buddhist temple in Toyokawa with traditional architecture including a main hall, pagoda foundations, and extensive grounds. The layout spans several acres with typical structures of ancient Japanese temples organized around central courtyards and pathways.
The temple was founded in the 8th century under Emperor Shomu's decree as part of a national temple network. A major reconstruction took place in the 16th century, followed by a relocation to a site further east.
The temple preserves a bronze bell from the Heian period and a wooden seated Buddha statue that reflect the artistic traditions kept alive over centuries. These objects remain central to how visitors understand the spiritual practices that shaped the region.
The temple can be reached by walking about 20 minutes from Koku Station on the Meitetsu Line or by car from the Toyokawa Interchange in about 15 minutes. The grounds are easy to navigate and provide plenty of space for exploring the different areas.
Archaeological excavations revealed that the pagoda was actually built before the main hall, which was unusual for Japanese temples of that period. This discovery shows how ancient builders approached construction and planning differently than typically expected.
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