National Treasure, Ruriko-ji Temple, Five-storied Pagoda

Verified [Verified] denotes information that has been published with confirmation of its owing parties.

National Treasure, Ruriko-ji Temple, Five-storied Pagoda

The five-storied pagoda is a national treasure and one of Japan’s three most distinctive pagodas.

3.58 1

Last update :

In 1399, Ouchi Yoshihiro was killed in the Oei War. His brother, Morimi, planned to build a pagoda to memorialize Yoshihiro and completed it in 1442.

It is 31.2m-tall, mostly in Japanese style with some Chinese style. Cypress bark is used for the roof and the body of the pagoda becomes slenderer as it goes up for giving it a clean impression. This is one of the superb architecture during mid Muromachi Period and the best of Ouchi culture, which is selected into Japan’s three most distinctive pagodas along with Horyuji and Daigoji Temples.

When the five-layered pagoda and the mountain behind it are reflected on the pond, the scene is exquisite with cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greens in summer, fall foliage, and snowscape in winter.

On its grounds, there is Ruriko-ji Information Hall, where the oldest hand-written copy of Shobogenzo is displayed which explains the teachings of Reverend Dogen, the founder of Soto Sect. You can also see the model of the pagoda’s framework, etc.

Highlights

  • The 10th existing oldest five-storied pagoda and one of the three most distinctive pagodas in Japan.
  • Yamaguchi’s tourism symbol with scenic beauty in all four seasons.
  • Pagoda is lit up from sunset to 10pm.
  • The neighborhood has Toshunji, Mori Motonari’s family temple, Chinryutei where the revolutionary patriots gathered at, and many other historical spots.

Photos

  • Worthy to be called “Western Kyoto,” Ouchi Culture’s elegance

    Worthy to be called “Western Kyoto,” Ouchi Culture’s elegance

  • Architecture with excellent shockproof “Shinbashira” technology

    Architecture with excellent shockproof “Shinbashira” technology

  • The pagoda is in the Kayama Park where the Ouchi Hiroyo statue is

    The pagoda is in the Kayama Park where the Ouchi Hiroyo statue is

  • In spring, 170 cherry trees blossom. Marvelous contrast with the pagoda

    In spring, 170 cherry trees blossom. Marvelous contrast with the pagoda

  • Between late September and early October, Yamaguchi Yurameki Kairo, a light-up event, is held each year

    Between late September and early October, Yamaguchi Yurameki Kairo, a light-up event, is held each year

Reviews

1
  • 刑凱達

    山口縣有名的賞櫻景點,有五重塔做陪襯拍照起來特別美!

Details

Name in Japanese
瑠璃光寺五重塔
Postal Code
753-0081
Address
7-1 Kozancho, Yamaguchi City, Yamaguchi
Telephone
083-934-6630 (Kayama Koen Mae Information Centre)
Hours
Free to visit any time
Admission
Free (Ruriko-ji Information Hall only: Adult 200 yen, High and midddle schooler 100 yen, Elementary child 50 yen)
Directions
1) From JR Yamaguchi Station, ride the City Community Bus bound for Kayama-koen for 15 min., get off at Kayama-koen Gojunoto-mae Stop, and walk a little
2) From Chugoku Expressway, Yamaguchi Interchange, drive 15 min.