Ankoku-ji, Buddhist temple in Kato, Japan
Ankoku-ji is a Buddhist temple with a main hall surrounded by maple trees on spacious grounds in the Kato area. The complex houses several structures and works of art that rank among the nation's most important cultural properties.
The temple was founded in 1347 under the direction of Ashikaga Takauji, the first shogun of the Muromachi shogunate. This establishment reflects the close ties between religious sites and political power during that era.
The temple serves as a living center where ancient Buddhist art and religious practice remain visible to visitors today. Sculptures and scrolls displayed here connect people to centuries of worship and artistic tradition.
The temple has parking for about 20 vehicles, and the outdoor areas are freely accessible. Those wishing to visit the inner sanctuary should arrange a time in advance.
The grounds serve as the burial place of Ashikaga Takauji and his relatives, with their graves positioned beside a pond. This connection between the temple and the founder's family makes the site a personal monument to its era.
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