Mimasaka Kokubun-niji

What it is

• A temple of the Tendai sect of Buddhism dedicated to Yakushi Nyorai.
• Founded by order of Emperor Shomu during the Nara period.
• The current structures were rebuilt by the Tsuyama clan in 1623.
• The original temple location is designated as a National Historic Site.

What to see

• Excavated roof tiles that resemble those found at the Heijokyu Palace.
• The original temple site located east of the current buildings.
• The former nunnery site situated 450 meters west of the temple.
• A large circular burial mound called Iizuka Kofun located nearby.

Getting there

• The site is a 25-minute walk from Higashi-Tsuyama Station.

Notes written by Japan Gems from facts in Japanese Wikipedia.