Kokutai-ji, Buddhist temple in Takaoka, Japan.
Kokutai-ji is a Buddhist temple in Takaoka built with wooden structures that follow traditional Japanese design principles. The grounds contain gardens and pathways that divide the space into different areas, making it easy for visitors to walk through and experience the layout naturally.
The temple was originally founded with a different name and was renamed by imperial decree in the 1300s, marking a significant moment in its establishment. This name change reflected a deeper recognition of the institution's importance within the broader religious network of the time.
This place serves as a living center where visitors can observe monks engaged in their daily spiritual practices. The Rinzai-Zen tradition shapes the rhythm of activities here, creating a visible connection between the physical spaces and the contemplative life of those who inhabit them.
The temple is relatively easy to walk around, and visitors can explore the grounds at their own pace without needing a guide. Wear comfortable shoes since many pathways are covered with gravel or have uneven surfaces.
This place is one of fourteen independent branches of the Rinzai school and maintains historical links to wandering monks who wore basket hats. This connection to an itinerant tradition makes it a rare example of a nearly forgotten religious practice.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
