Virtual Kasai Saigoku 33 Kannon Pilgrimage #2 Kokufu-ji Temple

 

     Kokufu-ji Temple was founded by Priest Myoe (1173-1232) sometime between 1190 and 1199 on the Tonohara Abandoned Temple Site.  The abandoned temple is believed to have been founded sometime between in the latter half of the 7th century and the beginning of the 8th century.  The temple is supposed to have had the Horyuji style temple buildings.  It is unknown why the Temple was abandoned but, judging from the foundation date of Kokufu-ji Temple, the abandoned temple could have been involved in the Genpei War (1180–1185), which resulted in the establishment of the Kamakura Shogunate.

     Kokufu-ji Temple’s Buddhist tanka poem is:

How blessed we are! The Buddha shines with lapis blue,

Whose radiant light brings comfort, pure and true.

With twelve great vows to save all souls from grief,

His everlasting mercy offers clear relief.

Address: 37 Tonoharacho, Kasai, Hyogo 675-2445

Phone: 0790-44-1086