Niomon Gate and Niozo Statues
Kinpusenji Temple’s north-facing Niomon Gate is an imposing two-story structure over 20 meters in height. This National Treasure dates back to the turbulent Nanbokucho period (1336–1392) and is one of only a few original two-story gates still standing in Japan. It is the only remaining main gate at Kinpusenji, as the south-facing Nitenmon Gate burned down.
The 5-meter-tall Kongo Rikishi guardian statues on either side of the gate date back to the fourteenth century, and have been designated Important Cultural Properties.
The gate is currently undergoing preservation work for the first time since the 1950s, and may be covered until 2030.