An ancient temple said to have been founded by the ascetic Hodo Sennin in the Hakuho period (late seventh century), standing quietly in the mountains of Kato City. Its main hall, built in the Muromachi period and designated a National Treasure, is a representative example of medieval Buddhist architecture in Harima, and its imposing scale and intricate timber joinery overwhelm visitors. The temple…

Chokonji Temple is traditionally said to have been founded in 681 CE during the Hakuho period by the legendary ascetic Hodo Sennin. It is also revered as a sacred site associated with Prince Shotoku. Through the Heian and Kamakura periods, the temple attracted deep devotion from the surrounding regi…