Kousanji Museum (Kousanji)

This temple is part of the Jodo Shinshu Hongan-ji school of Buddhism, built by an Osakan businessman named Kozo Kousanji, who created it as a family temple for his mother. It is known as a “Temple for Mothers,” to express gratitude to all the mothers in the world. The area surrounding the temple grounds is open to the public as a museum.

The temple’s structures are modeled after famous buildings from across Japan, built with an emphasis on functionality and practicality, and 15 of these buildings have been designated as nationally registered Tangible Cultural Properties. One of the most prominent buildings is “Koyo-mon Gate,” which is modeled after Nikko’s Yomei-mon Gate and is also known as the West Nikko.

Furthermore, there are various collections on display, themed after things like “Buddhist art,” “tea ceremony art,” and “modern art,” that include sculptures and paintings considered Important Cultural Properties.

Be sure not to miss out on the 5,000㎡ marble garden “The Hill of Hope” located within the grounds. Created by world-famous sculptor Itto Kuetani, the marble used in the garden was mined from Carrara, Italy. Monuments of various sizes stand lined up, making a mysterious, pure white sight.

You can also enjoy the sights of each season here, from cherry blossoms and azaleas during the spring to colorful leaves in the fall.