Ruriko Temple Five-Story Pagoda, Yamaguchi, Japan
Rurikoji is a Buddhist temple in Yamaguchi City, best known for its five-storied pagoda that is a national treasure. Built in 1442, the pagoda is justifiably ranked among Japan’s three greatest, alongside those of Horyuji Temple near Nara and Daigoji Temple in Kyoto. Interestingly, the pagoda predates Rurikoji as an institution, which was established only in the late 1400s.
The temple grounds of Rurikoji are also known as Kozan Park. Other buildings on the grounds include the main hall, a temple storehouse, a bell tower and a small but well-done museum with pictures and models of the fifty-plus five-storied pagodas found across Japan. The museum provides interesting information about the pagodas such as their differences in design, but has limited English explanations.
Epic Japan Culture & Adventure Route © Monika Newbound
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