Tsushima Kokubunji

Tsushima Kokubunji is a provincial temple located on the southern part of Tsushima Island, built in the traditional Japanese style with wooden structures and surrounding gardens. The temple grounds feature multiple buildings arranged around central courtyards, preserving the layout typical of temples established during the imperial period.

Emperor Shomu established this provincial temple during the 8th century as part of a nationwide network created to reinforce imperial power through Buddhism. The temple served as a religious and administrative center on the island, contributing to the spread of Buddhist influence across the region.

The temple maintains Soto Zen Buddhist practices, where monks perform daily meditation sessions and traditional religious ceremonies throughout the year.

The temple is accessible by local transportation from Tsushima City and is open from early morning until late afternoon. Visitors should allow time to walk through the grounds at a comfortable pace, as the site has multiple areas to explore.

The temple holds documentation dating back to 855, making it one of the earliest recorded provincial temples in the Tsushima region.