Kōmyōzen-ji

What it is

• A Zen temple of the Tofuku-ji school founded by Tetsugyu Enshin in 1273
• Commonly known as Kokedera or Moss Temple due to its lush greenery
• Served as the family temple for officials of the nearby Dazaifu Tenmangu
• The main hall is a designated cultural property of Dazaifu City

What to see

• The front garden featuring fifteen stones arranged in a specific pattern
• A dry landscape garden called Itteki-kaitei located at the rear
• Fukuoka Prefecture designated scenic spots within the temple grounds
• A large Celtis sinensis tree recognized as a city natural monument

When to go

• Public viewing is currently suspended for renovations since 2018

Getting there

• Located a six minute walk from Dazaifu Station

Notes written by Japan Gems from facts in Japanese Wikipedia.