Kosanji Temple is unusual because it was built by a single individual rather than an established religious order. Founded in 1936 by businessman Kozo Kosanji as a memorial to his mother, the temple features reproductions of famous architectural styles from across Japan rather than following a single traditional design. This creates an eclectic, almost theme park-like atmosphere that contrasts sharply with typical Japanese temples. The addition of the modern marble sculpture garden further distinguishes it from conventional Buddhist sites.
Kosanji Temple is a registered religious site within the Jodo Shinshu Buddhist tradition and conducts regular religious services. However, it functions simultaneously as a cultural attraction and art museum. The temple's unique origin story and architectural approach make it more commercially oriented than most traditional temples, but it maintains its religious purpose alongside its role as a popular sightseeing destination along the Shimanami Kaido route.
Most visitors spend between one to two hours exploring the temple grounds thoroughly. This allows time to walk through the various temple buildings, view the Buddhist art collections, and explore the Hill of Hope marble garden. If you're interested in photography or want to examine the architectural details more closely, you might want to allocate closer to two hours. The temple can be seen more quickly in about 45 minutes if you're on a tight schedule.
Yes, Kosanji Temple is one of the most popular stops for cyclists on the Shimanami Kaido route. The temple is located on Ikuchi Island, roughly at the midpoint of the cycling route, and is just a short detour from the main path. There are bicycle parking facilities available at the temple. Many cyclists plan their route to include a stop here for both cultural interest and as a rest break during the 70-kilometer journey across the island chain.
Yes, the standard admission fee of ¥1,400 for adults covers entry to both the main temple buildings and the Hill of Hope marble garden. The marble garden is considered an integral part of the Kosanji Temple experience and features dramatic white marble sculptures, terraces, and panoramic viewing areas overlooking the Seto Inland Sea. There is no separate ticket required to access this section.
Traveler reviews
Kousanji is one of the most unique and colorful temples in Onomichi! The detail in the architecture is amazing, and walking through the marble 'The Heights of Marble' (未来心の丘) at the top feels like being in another world. It’s a bit of a journey to get there, but it’s absolutely worth it for the views and the art.
It’s a real hidden gem, comparable to places like Nikkō Tōshō-gū or Heian Shrine, yet with no crowds at all.
The vividly colored main hall and the marble pagoda are absolutely stunning!
And the “Thousand Buddha Cave” is something you definitely shouldn’t miss‼️
Beautiful temple and Buddhist worship site on the Shimanami Kaido cycling road, definitely worth planning a stop for during your ride! The cave of a thousand Buddha's was stunning (and almost 20°C cooler than outside, so welcoming). Thebhill of hope is a must too, wear your sunglasses as it is very white and reflective!
One of the coolest sites in Japan. From temples and pagodas, to the Cave of 1,000 Buddhas and The Hill of Hope, I was in a state of awe for hours!
This temple was our first stop as we cycled the the Shimanami Kaido Cycling route and it was amazing. The temple is nice, but the gardens and the cave were the highlight. The marble hilltop installation was a pleasant surprise and provided a great 360 view.
