Futago-ji Temple, Buddhist temple at Mount Futago, Kunisaki, Japan

Futago-ji is a Tendai Buddhist temple on the slopes of Mount Futago, the highest peak on the Kunisaki Peninsula. A long flight of moss-covered stone steps climbs between earthen banks to a wooden gate with a gray-tiled gabled roof; a rounded stone marker stands to the left of the top of the steps. The precincts lie within the Setonaikai National Park.

The temple was founded in 718 and grew to become the main institution of the Rokugo-Manzan temple network during the Edo Period. This position gave it lasting influence across the region.

Futago-ji is the central temple of the Rokugō Manzan network, whose culture is considered the origin of shinbutsu-shūgō, the fusion of Buddhism and Shinto. Stone Niō guardians made in 1814, 245 and 230 cm tall, stand on both sides of the stone steps leading to the temple gate. The temple is also known for prayers for safe childbirth and as a maple-viewing spot.

The grounds are open year-round for visitors to explore at their own pace. Autumn is especially rewarding, as colored maple trees create vivid scenes throughout the complex.

The two stone Niō flanking the flight of steps up to the gate are dated 1814 and are among the largest on the Kunisaki Peninsula, standing 245 cm tall with figures of 230 cm. The temple grounds lie within the Setonaikai National Park, and its forest was chosen for Japan's list of 100 forests for forest bathing.