🗺️ Tosa Kokubun-ji国分寺

In the 13th year of the Tenpyo era (741 AD), under the sacred decree of Emperor Shomu, the temple was founded by Master Gyoki. The temple enshrines the Golden Light Sutra, which was personally transcribed by the emperor, earning it the title "Temple of the Four Heavenly Kings Protecting the Nation." It serves as a place of prayer for world peace, abundant harvests, and the well-being of the people. It is said that Ki no Tsurayuki, the author of the "Tosa Diary," served as the provincial governor and lived here for four years. Additionally, during the Warring States period, the Chosokabe clan and later the Yamauchi lords in the Edo period took over the temple, which has maintained a strong faith among the people, and the temple complex is still well-preserved today. The entire temple area is designated as a national historic site, with the main hall, the temple bell, and two wooden statues of Yakushi Nyorai recognized as important cultural properties of the nation. It is a famous destination for viewing seasonal flowers, with the peony season being particularly beautiful.

In the 13th year of the Tenpyō era (741), it was founded by Gyōki under the sacred decree of Emperor Shōmu. Kōbō Daishi later revitalized it as a Shingon sect temple, and it eventually became one of the 88 sacred sites in Shikoku. It is said that Ki no Tsurayuki, the author of the "Tosa Diary," served as the provincial governor and lived here for four years. A beautiful temple where seasonal flowers such as peonies bloom in abundance.