Kanpuku-ji, Buddhist temple of Shingon Buzan sect in Katori, Japan
Kanpuku-ji is a Buddhist temple belonging to the Shingon Buzan sect located in Katori, Japan. The complex contains a main hall, daishi hall, kannon hall, fudo hall, and several other ceremonial structures spread across the grounds.
The temple received a grant from Emperor Saga allowing it to display the imperial Chrysanthemum crest and permitting its priests to wear purple robes. These honors reflected the emperor's early recognition and support of the institution.
The temple displays four copper round plaques featuring Buddhist deities that hold official status as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. These artworks form a central part of the site's spiritual and artistic identity.
The temple can be reached by a roughly 25-minute walk from JR Sawara Station or accessed by car in about 10 minutes from the Sawara-Katori interchange. Comfortable footwear is recommended for either approach.
On New Year's Eve, December 31st, the temple opens its bell to 108 visitors who each ring it as part of a traditional practice. The occasion also features the distribution of wooden plaques and a raffle drawing that draws crowds seeking good fortune.
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