Excavations in the southern wards of Kyoto have uncovered the remains of a 9th-century Buddhist temple from the Heian period. The find is particularly significant for the recovery of hundreds of intact roof eave tiles (kawara) featuring exquisite lotus flower motifs, a hallmark of early Heian aesthetics. The layout of the foundation suggests the temple was part of an elite residence or a private family chapel for the Fujiwara clan.
Researchers emphasized the importance of the timber preservation found in the waterlogged soil, which provides new data on the woodworking techniques of the era. The site offers a rare glimpse into the daily religious practices of the Kyoto aristocracy before the city became more densely urbanized in later centuries.