Kokuzenji Temple
About Kokuzenji Temple
A grand temple with a history dating back to 1340 and 1656, largely unscathed by the atomic bombing.
Kokuzenji Temple starts its history as a small prayer hut in 1340. However, it wasn’t until 1656 when it came to prominence after being selected as the family temple for the powerful Asano Family that ruled Hiroshima for much of the Edo Period. It was their influence that expanded the temple into the impressive structure it is today.
The Asano Family were major characters in the well known 47 Ronin story, with Kokuzenji Temple, and the neighbouring Shokoji Temple having a minor part to play in the final stages.
The temple suffered some damage from the atomic bombing in 1945, but remained largely unscathed except for being left leaning toward the northeast, as if twisted.
The buildings have undergone repairs since 1988, with construction finishing in 2001. Many of the roof repairs were able to be made using the original roof tiles blown away during the bombing.
Several of the buildings are now regarded by Hiroshima City as Important Cultural Properties, and others as Tangible Cultural Properties.
Kokuzenji Temple is one of the stops on the Futabanosata Historical Walking Trail.