Kozanji Temple

Kozanji Temple is a Soto Zen Buddhist temple and a designated stop on multiple pilgrimage routes: it is the 19th temple of the Chugoku 33 Kannon Pilgrimage and the 9th temple of the Sanyo Hana no Tera 24 Temples. The temple’s Buddha Hall (Butsuden), founded in 1320, is a prime example of Kamakura-period Zen-style architecture and is designated a National Treasure. The Jizo Bosatsu and Yoryu Kannon paintings are designated prefectural cultural properties. In addition, the Sanmon gate, sutra storehouse, study, Bishamonten statue, Senju Kannon seated statue, 28 attendant statues, and portraits of Kaneko Yokanekane, Mori Hidemoto, and Daido Kakusen are registered as city-designated cultural properties. The autumn foliage in the temple grounds is especially beautiful, and the contrast between the red leaves and the historical architecture—such as the Buddha Hall—is striking. The best viewing season is typically from mid-November to early December, which is slightly later than many nearby spots. Access to Kozanji: by public transportation, take a bus from JR Sanyo Main Line “Chofu Station” and get off at “Jokamachi Chofu” bus stop, then walk about 10 minutes. Alternatively, take a bus from “JR Shimonoseki Station” to the same stop and walk about 10 minutes. By car, it is about 15 minutes from the Chugoku Expressway “Shimonoseki IC.”