Chikugo Kokubunji, Buddhist temple ruins in Kurume, Japan
Chikugo Kokubunji are the ruins of an ancient temple in Kurume with excavated foundation stones and artifacts revealing the layout of the religious complex. The excavations show multiple building areas that served different functions within the old monastic community.
The temple was founded in the 8th century during the Nara period and served as a provincial center for Buddhist teachings under imperial command. These institutions were part of a nationwide network that demonstrated the emperor's political and religious authority.
The ruins show how Buddhism was practiced in ancient Japan and what role these religious sites held in society. Stone foundations visible today reveal where people gathered for prayer and daily religious life.
The site is open daily with free admission and has informational panels describing different excavated areas. Wear sturdy shoes and allow time to explore the exposed foundation areas and read the panel explanations throughout the grounds.
The site holds temple and nunnery ruins side by side, showing that male and female Buddhist communities existed in parallel. This is rare archaeological evidence of how men and women shared equal roles in religious practice during ancient Japan.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
