Rurikoji Temple

Rurikoji Temple (瑠璃光寺, Rurikōji), is an iconic site renowned for its stunning five-story pagoda, a national treasure built in 1442. This pagoda is considered one of Japan’s three greatest, alongside those at Horyuji Temple and Daigoji Temple. The temple, founded in the late 1400s, offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich spiritual history, with its serene grounds known as Kozan Park. Visitors can explore the main hall, bell tower, temple storehouse, and a small museum featuring models and photographs of pagodas across Japan. The museum offers unique insights into the design variations of these sacred structures, though English explanations are somewhat limited.

Kozan Park is also home to the burial site of the influential Mori family, who ruled the region during the Edo Period. One of the park’s notable features is the Uguisubari Stone Pavement, famous for the unique sound it makes as visitors walk along it, leading to the graves. Another highlight of the park is Chinryutei, a traditional tea house where key historical figures such as Saigo Takamori once gathered to discuss plans for the Meiji Restoration. Visitors can freely enter Chinryutei, appreciate the tatami rooms, and learn more about the revolutionaries who played a pivotal role in shaping modern Japan.