Kawachi kokubun-ji ato, Former Buddhist temple ruins in Kashiwara, Japan
Kawachi kokubun-ji ato is an archaeological site with preserved foundations of temple buildings from the Nara period, including a main hall, lecture room, and pagoda base. The remains reveal the spatial layout and structure of an important religious complex from this era.
The temple was founded in 741 as part of a nationwide network to promote Buddhism throughout the region. The complex played a key role in the religious and political strategy of that time.
The site reveals how Buddhism was practiced in this region and what role the temple held for the community at that time. The remaining structures offer insights into religious life during the Nara period and its importance to people's daily existence.
The site is designated as a National Historic Site with free access to the archaeological remains. Visitors should expect uneven ground and prepare for open-air exploration.
The site contains specialized kilns discovered during excavation that were used exclusively to produce roof tiles marked with 'kokubun-ji' inscriptions. These findings reveal how precisely the craft production was organized for this temple.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
