First established in 850, Motsu-ji later enjoyed the patronage of Motohira and Hidehira, the second and third Fujiwara lords, and expanded immensely in the 12th century. During this historical peak, the temple was recognized as among the most prestigious in the nation, and featured at least 40 shrines and prayer halls, over 500 buildings with living space for resident monks, and a grand central hall with an impressive two-story Buddha statue. Unfortunately, none of the original buildings have survived to modern day, but the foundations and remnants of many can still be seen, and the Jogyodo prayer hall was rebuilt in 1732, making it the current oldest structure.

The temple garden itself was originally designed to resemble the heavenly afterlife, and has been carefully recreated today exactly as it first stood, over 800 years ago. The temple museum also houses artwork, historical items, and religious artifacts from the temple’s long history.

(Designated a special historic site/special place of scenic beauty by the Japanese government)

• History & Culture
• Historical Spot