Muramatsusan Kokuzodo Temple

Located in Tokai Village, Naka District, Ibaraki, Muramatsusan Kokuzodo, with the temple name Nikkoji, is a temple of the Buzan school of Shingon Buddhism said to have been founded in 807 by the great teacher Kobo Daishi. It enshrines Kokuzo Bosatsu, a Buddha of learning and wisdom, and is counted as one of Japan's three great Kokuzo temples, alongside Asama in Ise and Yanaizu in Aizu.

Called one of the foremost power spots in Ibaraki, it draws many worshippers who pray for blessings such as the age-thirteen visit, warding off misfortune, protection by direction, and success and advancement.

Highlights

- Prayers to Kokuzo Bosatsu, the Buddha of learning and wisdom, with the precinct bustling with families wishing for children's growth at the age-thirteen visit - The various halls lined across the grounds, especially the three-story pagoda and the inner sanctuary, whose striking forms harmonize with the scenery of the seasons - A stone monument of a Basho verse and a poetry monument of Bocho Yamamura, offering the pleasure of tracing literary footsteps

Enjoying the Seasons

The three-story pagoda and the inner sanctuary stand out all the more beautifully in the seasons of fresh green and autumn color. During the spring age-thirteen visit, the precinct brightens with children in fine dress. For a quiet visit, a weekday without events is recommended.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: Tokai Village, Naka District, Ibaraki - Public transport: about 15 minutes by taxi from Tokai Station on the JR Joban Line - By car: about 15 minutes from the Tokai Smart IC on the Joban Expressway, or about 30 minutes from the Naka IC - Parking: village-run lot for 120 cars

A Quick Tip

For families with a child of counted age thirteen, the age-thirteen visit to receive wisdom is recommended. With a large parking lot provided, visiting by car is worry-free.