History of Buddhist Temples in Obama

In ancient times, Obama was part of Wakasa Province, one of the three provinces called miketsukuni that were tasked with providing food to the imperial court in Nara and then in Kyoto. Obama was also an important seaport that served as a gateway for trade and cultural exchange with mainland Asia. Many temples were constructed in Obama in the days when the Buddhist religion exerted substantial influence over politics. Several of these ancient temples and the statues enshrined there have withstood the test of time, and many of them are now designated National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. The fact that these places of worship have survived over the centuries can be attributed not just to the lack of major wars in the region, but also to the efforts of the people to maintain and protect them.
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Sites of Worship

Among the many religious sites in Obama, eight ancient temples form the group called Hachikaji, or “the Eight Temples of Obama.” They are Mantokuji, Kokubunji, Myotsuji, Hagaji, Enshoji, Myorakuji, Jinguji, and Tadaji, all of them temples with storied pasts and numerous precious treasures. Many of the temple buildings and Buddhist statues are designated National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties at the national, prefectural, and city level. Enter the profound stillness of their main halls and regard the breathtaking Buddhist statues whose subtle facial expressions reflect the eras in which they were sculpted.
  • Obama Hachikaji: the Eight Temples of Obama

    Among the numerous religious sites in Obama, eight ancient temples form the group called Hachikaji, or “the Eight Temples of Obama.” They are Mantokuji, Kokubunji, Myotsuji, Hagaji, Enshoji, Myorakuji, Jinguji, and Tadaji, all of them temples with storied pasts and numerous precious treasures.
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  • Temples of Wakasa Region

    Enter the profound stillness of the main halls and regard the precious Buddhist statues whose subtle facial expressions reflect the eras in which they were sculpted.
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  • Suggested Route
  • Suggested Route

    This section introduces recommended routes and points of interest to enjoy the eight temples more fully. We hope you will find this route useful, whether you are a beginner or an expert.
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  • Experiences
  • Experiences

    Here are some recommendations for temple experiences. If you would like to enjoy a deeper and more contemplative encounter with the Buddhist statues and images, please give them a try during your tour.
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