Ruriko-ji

About

Ruriko-ji has stood proudly since 1442, boasting one of the country’s most lauded pagodas with a cypress bark roof and gracefully stacked upper levels. Visit during cherry blossom season to take enviable photographs of the pagoda before the pond, or capture the snow settling on the pagoda during winter. Experience Ouichi culture at Ruriko-ji Temple and see the family grave of daimyo Mori Motonari nearby, along with other remains of historical buildings and storehouses, a bell tower, and a small museum. Tours of the temple are provided by volunteer guides on weekends. While entry to the temple's main grounds is free, the 14th-century garden, recognized as a National Place of Scenic Beauty, is accessible for a modest fee. This Chinese-influenced garden surrounds the library and provides a captivating view from within the building. The temple is open 9AM to 5PM daily.