Gomoto-ji (Akakabe-dera)

Overview

Gomoto-ji, also known as Akakabe-dera (Red Wall Temple), is a unique temple in Nakatsu, easily recognizable by its striking red walls. Founded in 1587, the temple's walls were painted red after a bloody battle in 1589, when the bloodstains of the slain retainers of Utsunomiya Shigetomo could not be removed. Located in the Teramachi (Temple Town) area, it's a 7-minute walk from Nakatsu Station. Visitors can still see sword marks on the pillars of the temple's kura (storehouse). This historic site offers a glimpse into the turbulent past of Nakatsu and the tragic events surrounding the Kuroda clan's rise to power. Best visited during the day to fully appreciate the vibrant red walls.

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