Ancient Tombs
Bitchū Kokubun-ji in Sōja, Okayama, was founded in 741 by Emperor Shōmu as part of a network of provincial temples. Its 34-meter, five-story pagoda completed in 1844 is the only one in Okayama and a standout feature. Surrounded by seasonal blooms and near ancient sites like Kōmorizuka Kofun, it’s a scenic stop along the Kibiji cycling route, just a short ride from JR Sōja Station.