Place of worship • Teranodan-1 Ankokujichō, Ayabe, Kyoto 623-0104, Japan
Nestled in Ayabe City, Kyoto Prefecture, Kemidera Ankokugi Temple is renowned as the temple relating to the first shogun of the Muromachi shogunate, Ashikaga Takauji. This temple captivates many tourists, with its harmonious blend of historical significance and beautiful landscapes.
Ankokugi was established at the birthplace of Ashikaga Takauji. After Takauji’s death, part of his remains was returned to this land and enshrined as a pagoda. The temple’s grounds are also home to the graves of Takauji’s mother, Seishi, and his wife, Toko, continuing to tell the history of the Ashikaga family.
The standout feature of Ankokugi is its rare thatched main hall. This traditional architectural style lends the temple a unique charm.
On the right of Kaisando are three pagodas, acting as the tombs for people associated with the Ashikaga family. These historic structures are usually not open to the public, but can be viewed on special occasions.
Within the temple grounds, there remains a well said to have been used at the time of Ashikaga Takauji's birth, capturing the interest of many visitors as a living witness to history.
Ankokugi Temple is also reputed to be the model for the temple appearing in the popular anime “Ikkyu-san.” Particularly, the atmosphere of the stairs leading to the temple closely resembles the anime's portrayal, attracting many fans.
The allure of Ankokugi lies additionally in its beautiful, seasonal views. Particularly in spring, the weeping cherry blossoms flourish, and in autumn, the temple is adorned with maple leaves. These seasonal changes further accentuate the historical ambiance of the temple.
For elderly or individuals with walking difficulties, relatively flat paths from the parking area ensure an accessible visit.
Kemidera Ankokugi is a temple with profound connections to Ashikaga Takauji, an important figure in Japanese history. Its thatched main hall, historical tombs, and picturesque seasonal views captivate visitors. In the tranquil temple grounds, visitors are offered a precious experience of immersing themselves in Japanese history and culture, making it a highly recommended temple for many tourists.
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