Kawara-dera, Buddhist temple ruins in Asuka, Japan
The temple site contains 28 agate foundation stones and a pagoda base, showing the original symmetrical layout with one pagoda and two golden halls.
Constructed during the Asuka period by Emperor Tenji to honor his mother Empress Saimei, Kawara-dera stood as one of the four national temples.
The temple preserves two wooden statues, the Komokuten and Jikokuten guardian figures, which are designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan.
Visitors can experience traditional Buddhist sutra copying in a dedicated room while viewing the historical Asuka period sites through the windows.
The temple grounds measure 78,339 square meters and feature the first sutra copying facility established in Japanese history.
Location: Asuka
Address: 奈良県高市郡明日香村川原1109
GPS coordinates: 34.47222,135.81722
Latest update: May 12, 2025 10:59
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