Bell Tower Gate - Takayama, Japan - Bell Towers on Waymarking.com

Hida Kokubun-ji is one of the few surviving provincial temples established by Emperor Shomu during the Nara period (710 – 794). Due to this connection, the foundation stones of the Nara period pagoda located on temple grounds were designated as a National Historic Site by the Japanese government in 1929.

The temple is located in downtown Takayama, a short distance from Takayama Station. The exact date of construction is believed to be around 757, over 15 years from the foundation of the provincial temple system in 741. The temple claims that it was founded by the famed wandering prelate Gyoki without any historical evidence. However, records indicate that the original temple burned down in 819 and was rebuilt in 855. The existing Hondo dates from the Muromachi period.

The 7-story pagoda also dates from the same period, burned down during the Oei period and was reconstructed again in 1585. It was burned down again in the battles between Kanemori Nagachika and Anegakoji Yoritsuna and a 3-story pagoda was built in its place in 1615. This structure also burned down in 1791 and was rebuilt in 1820.

In 1695, when Takayama Castle was destroyed, the Hida Kokubun-ji inherited some of its structures, including the main gate.

Source: Wikipedia (visit link)

Address of Tower: 1 Chome-83 Sowamachi Takayama, Gifu, Japan 506-0007 Number of bells in tower?: 1 Relevant website?: [Web Link] Rate tower: Tours or visits allowed in tower?: No Still Operational: Not Listed

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