Zuiryuji Temple

Zuiryuji Temple (瑞龍寺) in Takaoka is a beautifully preserved Soto Zen Buddhist temple, built in 1659 to honor Maeda Toshinaga, the second lord of the Kaga domain. Known for its harmonious layout and elegant wooden corridors, the temple is a prime example of early Edo Period architecture. Visitors enter through the striking two-story Sanmon Gate, symbolizing the passage from the secular to the sacred. Inside, the Butsuden Hall enshrines a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, while the Hatto Hall features a rare image of Ususama Myo-o, the guardian of purification.

Zuiryuji Temple offers more than architectural beauty—it invites moments of quiet reflection and cultural depth. A small, easily missed statue of Ususama Myo-o near the public restroom adds a touch of Buddhist symbolism to even the most ordinary spaces. Just a kilometer east of the temple, Toshinaga’s mausoleum provides a peaceful extension to the visit. Whether you're drawn by history, Zen philosophy, or the tranquil setting, Zuiryuji is a meaningful stop on any journey through Toyama Prefecture.