Shikoku Pilgrimage No. 59 Kokubunji Temple

Kokubunji Temple is one of the Kokubunji temples established throughout the country by the decree of Emperor Shomu in 741. It used to be a huge temple, but it was burned down in repeated wars and is now located 100 meters west of its original location. Although its scale has been reduced, the main hall (built in 1789, the first year of the Kansei era) with its huge foundation stones and numerous excavated artifacts, designated as a national cultural property as the former Kokubunji Temple, reminds us of its magnificent appearance at that time. In addition, the temple treasures such as the Kokubunji documents in three volumes are stored in the storage room of the study. In spring, azaleas and cherry blossoms color the temple grounds, and the Tang camellia, a natural monument designated by Imabari City, is also a sight to see. Many pilgrims also visit the temple.