Ōmidō temple ruins, Buddhist temple ruins in Kurayoshi, Japan
Ōmidō temple ruins are the remains of a Buddhist religious site in Kurayoshi where multiple buildings once stood in an organized arrangement. Archaeological work has revealed foundation stones, roof tiles, and other building materials scattered across the ground that help visitors understand the former layout.
The temple was built during a period when Buddhism was spreading across Japan and later fell into disuse. Scientists learned much about its age and importance through systematic excavations that took place over several years.
The site's layout reflects how Buddhist temples were organized in this region, with separate areas for worship and daily monastic life. Visitors walking through can still sense how the space guided people from one ritual area to another.
The site is located within a public park and can be explored on foot, with information signs marking different areas. Wearing sturdy shoes is helpful since the ground is uneven and you will be walking over stones and grass.
Excavations uncovered fragments of Buddha statues and carved stone figures that suggest religious art was made or maintained at this location. These findings offer a rare glimpse into how craftspeople created sacred objects for worship.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
