瑠璃光寺

This pagoda at Ruriko-ji temple in Yamaguchi City is one of the three most important 5-storied pagodas in Japan, the other two being at Horyu-ji in Nara, and Daigo-ji in Kyoto.



It was built in 1442, which makes it the tenth oldest in Japan.

The pagoda is 31.2 meters tall, with roofs of cypress bark. It is a designated National Trasure.



It was built by the 26th generation daimyo Morimi Ouchi for his brother, the 25th generation daimyo Yoshihiro Ouchi.

The pagoda is particularly worth seeing during cherry blossom season, and also at night as it is illuminated.



Yamaguchi City is known as the Kyoto of the West as the town was home to many nobles and artists from Kyoto during the late Muromachi Period while Kyoto was suffering from wars.

Entrance to the park around the pagoda and the temple is free, but nearby is a small museum with models of pagodas and photographs of other pagodas around Japan. Open 9-5, 7 days a week. Entrance 300yen.

Ruriko-ji is located north of central Yamaguchi City, a short bus ride or 15 min. walk from Kameyama Park.

Japan images © Jake Davies & Japan Visitor.com

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