古刹

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 古刹 is read as こさつ and is a noun for an old Buddhist temple with a long history and tradition.
• Basic usage: A historic temple beyond a mountain path appears in 山道の先にある古刹, while one covered in snow appears in 雪に包まれた古刹.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• A literary term for a temple
  • 古刹 refers specifically to a historic Buddhist temple rather than any old religious building and fits written descriptions such as travel accounts.
• Difference from 古い寺
  • 古い寺 is the general phrase for an old temple, while 古刹 carries the nuance of a temple with established history and tradition.