Kozanji is a Soto Zen temple in the old samurai town of Chofu near Shimonoseki.
It was established originally as a Rinzai temple in 1327.
It is the 19th temple on the Chugoku Kannon Pilgrimage.
Originally called Chofukuji, by the start of the 17th century it had become somewhat dilapidated, but Mori Hidemoto had it reconstructed as a Soto temple and changed the name to Kozanji.
The highlight of the temple is the Butduden, the Buddha Hall, built in 1320. Top photo.
It is the oldest remaining example of Zenshuyo style architecture in Japan and is registered as a National Treasure.
Kozanji has numerous links to the Meiji Restoration. The mound pictured below is a memorial to all those who gave their lives for the Meiji Restoration.
Inside the Butsuden is the honzon of the temple, a Thousand-armed Kannon, as well as numerous other noteworthy statues.
28 statues were carved in the early 16th century as attendants to kannon, and 23 remain today.
Kozanji has a big, ornate two^story gate, but it was enclosed in scaffolding and tarps when I visited.
The honzon is said to have been carved by the famous sculptor Unkei.
In the entrance to the priests quarters is a statue of Idaten.
This Bodhisattva is known as a protector of monasteries....
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