About
Ruriko-ji Temple's National Treasure five-storied pagoda in Kozan Park, Yamaguchi City. Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Ruriko-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in the Kozan neighborhood of Yamaguchi City, best known for its five-storied pagodaโa National Treasure built in 1442 and ranked among Japan's three greatest pagodas, alongside those of Horyuji Temple near Nara and Daigoji Temple in Kyoto. ๐ ๐
The pagoda stands 31.2 meters tall and represents a masterpiece of mid-Muromachi period architecture using Japanese techniques with Chinese-style influences. It is characterized by the use of a cornice only on the second story, creating a refined appearance as the body becomes slimmer toward the higher stories. ๐ The roof is made from cypress bark using traditional Japanese hiwadabuki techniques. ๐
The temple grounds, also known as Kozan Park, feature the pagoda as the centerpiece with a pond reflecting the structure against a backdrop of hillsโcreating the iconic view that attracts many photographers. ๐
Cultural & Religious Significance
After ลuchi Yoshihiro died in battle against Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, his younger brother ลuchi Moriakira ordered the construction of a pagoda in his memory. Moriakira died in 1431, and the pagoda was not completed until 1442. ๐ The temple itself was built in 1471 in memory of Sue Hirofusa and was originally called Anyo-ji before being renamed Ruriko-ji in 1492. ๐
The pagoda is the tenth oldest of the five-story pagodas in all of Japan and one of the most prominent structures from the mid-Muromachi period (1336-1573) to survive to the present day. ๐ It is lauded as the most outstanding structure surviving from the middle of the Muromachi period and is designated a National Treasure, reflecting its architectural and cultural significance. ๐
"Kyoto of the West" Cultural Context
Yamaguchi City earned its nickname "Kyoto of the West" because the town was home to many nobles and artists from Kyoto during the late Muromachi Period while Kyoto was suffering from wars. ๐ The area was ruled by the powerful Ouchi clan during the Muromachi Period, and today Yamaguchi retains a traditional atmosphere similar to Kyoto with its collection of historic buildings, impeccable gardens, and the renowned Rurikoji Temple. ๐
The architectural features of the pagoda reflect this cultural heritage, hailed as a masterpiece of the Ouchi culture that flourished in Yamaguchi. ๐
Visiting Information
Access: Located in downtown Yamaguchi City, approximately 10 minutes drive from JR Yamaguchi Station or 2.5 km north on foot. ๐ From the Yamaguchi Interior Scenic Route, the detour is 15-30 minutes to reach downtown Yamaguchi City.
Hours: Temple grounds open 24 hours (free admission); Ruriko-ji Information Hall: ยฅ200 (adult) ๐
Route Context: As a short detour from the main route through Yamaguchi, the temple can be easily visited during transit through the city. Parking is available near the temple grounds. ๐
Current Status (2025): The pagoda underwent major renovations from February 2023 to December 2025. As of April 2025, scaffolding has been removed and the pagoda is fully visible. Some minor garden-related work may continue through March 2026, but entry and exit to the park remain possible throughout the renovation period. ๐ ๐
Seasonal Considerations: Late October offers ideal conditions with autumn foliage providing beautiful colors around the pagoda grounds. ๐ The pagoda is picturesque in all seasons: plum and cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn foliage, and snowscape in winter.
The Experience
The temple grounds of Rurikoji, also known as Kozan Park, feature the National Treasure pagoda as the centerpiece with a pond in frontโcreating the iconic reflective view that attracts many photographers. ๐ The image of the pagoda with the pond before it and hills in the background allows visitors to capture amazing photos. ๐
The temple is popular for its seasonal transformations: autumn maple trees providing vibrant fall colors, spring cherry and plum blossoms, summer fresh greenery, and winter snowscapes creating particularly photogenic scenes. ๐ ๐
Near the parking area, visitors can see a rare sight where a pine tree grows and extends from a hollow in the trunk of a crape myrtle tree. ๐
Evening visits offer illuminated views of the pagoda from sunset to 10 PM, creating dramatic lighting for alternative photography perspectives. ๐
Practical Visiting Tips
Driving Considerations: Parking available near temple grounds makes it convenient for car travelers. ๐ Downtown Yamaguchi City location means easy detour from main routeโapproximately 10 minutes drive from JR Yamaguchi Station area.
Route Integration: The temple can be combined with a visit to nearby Yuda Onsen (5-10 minute drive) for an extended Yamaguchi City cultural experience. This pairing showcases both Yamaguchi's "Kyoto of the West" architectural heritage (Ruriko-ji) and its living onsen traditions (Yuda).
Photography Strategy: The pond reflection view is the classic shotโbest captured with afternoon light filtering through autumn leaves. Evening illumination (sunset to 10 PM) offers dramatic alternative views. ๐
Cultural Etiquette: Temple grounds remain a religious siteโmaintain respectful behavior. Photography permitted in grounds; be mindful of other visitors.
Budget Considerations: Temple grounds and pagoda viewing are FREEโno admission charge makes this an accessible cultural enrichment stop. ๐ Optional Information Hall visit costs only ยฅ200 (adult) for additional context.
Visit Duration for Route Travelers: Quick stop: 20-30 minutes (pagoda viewing and basic photography); Extended visit: 45-60 minutes (full grounds exploration, multiple photo angles, seasonal features)
Weather Preparation: October 30 temperatures (10-17ยฐC) are ideal for outdoor temple grounds exploration. Layer clothing for comfort during walking. Bring camera equipment for excellent autumn photography opportunities.
Source: attractions/kinosaki-to-fukuoka-yamaguchi-scenic-route/ruriko-ji-temple-five-storied-pagoda.md