Site of Tango Kokubunji Temple

Tango Kokubunji Temple was established in 741 as part of Emperor Shomu's national network of provincial temples used to extend government influence and spread Buddhism. The temple fell into decline as its school lost influence during the Kamakura period, was rebuilt in 1334, then burned down in 1542 during local warlord conflict. A painting by the master Sesshu Toyo from around 1500 shows the temple as it looked at the height of its power, including the main hall and five-storied pagoda. Today, two roof tiles are on display at the Kyoto Prefectural Tango Regional Museum on-site, along with partially visible foundation stones. The nearby Former Nagashima Residence, home of a mid-nineteenth-century village head, is also open to visitors.