Buddhist temple
Kokujō-ji
国上寺（こくじょうじ）
Tsubame, Niigata Prefecture
A temple of the Shingon-shū Buzan school in Kugami, Tsubame, said to be the oldest temple in Echigo. Its principal image is an Amida Nyorai of the jōbon jōshō form, shown to the public in every Year of the Rat.
English pages are the site’s own translations of its Japanese pages. The sources cited are in Japanese. 日本語で読む
Prayers associated with this place
Principal object of worship: Amida Nyorai (jōbon jōshō)
History and things to know
According to the temple's account of its origins, it was built in Wadō 2 (709) after an oracle from Iyahiko Ōkami, the Ichinomiya of Echigo, and has served as the bettō temple, as the honji of Iyahiko Jinja. The principal image is said to be a work of Gyōki and a sacred image granted by Empress Kōmyō. It was originally a Shugendō temple and, after passing through the Hossō and Tendai schools and others, now belongs to the Shingon-shū Buzan school.
Introduced by this site, based on materials from the shrine or temple and public bodies.
Related kami and buddhas
Before you visit
Opening hours, access, areas open to visitors, and events can change. Please check the latest guidance from the shrine or temple itself before you go.
Official website of the shrine or temple (may be in Japanese)
Sources (in Japanese)
- 国上寺「御祭神・御本尊・由緒の公式案内」（2026-10-22 確認）
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