Bizen Kokubun-ji Temple

Overview

Bizen Kokubun-ji Temple is one of the Kokubun-ji temples established throughout Japan during the Nara period by order of Emperor Shōmu. Located in present-day Sōja City, Okayama Prefecture, the temple's original grounds overlapped with the present-day temple grounds. The temple grounds measured 160 meters east-west and 180 meters north-south, and excavated pottery suggests its continued existence until the early Middle Ages. The present temple was rebuilt in the mid-Edo period, with its five-storied pagoda, designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, serving as its iconic symbol. Standing at 34.315 meters tall, this pagoda strongly retains the style of the late Edo period, captivating visitors as the only five-storied pagoda in Okayama Prefecture. Interestingly, it is said that the pagoda was initially planned as a three-storied pagoda before being changed to a five-storied one. A unique feature is that the first three stories are primarily constructed from zelkova wood, while the fourth and fifth stories use pine wood. The temple grounds also preserve the remains of the original Kokubun-ji Temple and the Bizen Kokubun Niji Temple, offering a tangible connection to history. The Kokubun-ji Temple ruins suggest a temple layout similar to Hōki-ji Temple, with some parts overlapping with the current temple complex. It is believed that structures such as the south gate, middle gate, pagoda, Golden Hall, and lecture hall once existed. The Bizen Kokubun Niji Temple ruins are located east of the Kokubun-ji Temple, with grounds measuring 108 meters east-west and 216 meters north-south. Although reportedly destroyed by fire during the Nanboku-chō period, numerous foundation stones and remains have been preserved. Structures such as the south gate, middle gate, Golden Hall, lecture hall, nun's quarters, or dining hall are believed to have existed. Bizen Kokubun-ji Temple offers a wonderful blend of history and nature. The surrounding area boasts many attractions, including the old San'yōdō (Saigoku Kaidō) highway, the Sunroad Kibiji National Government Lodging, the Bizen Kokubun Niji Temple ruins, and the Kibiji Fudoki-no-oka historical park. Be sure to visit Bizen Kokubun-ji Temple and immerse yourself in its rich history and tranquil natural setting.