Ruriko-ji Five-storied Pagoda

The height of the five-storied pagoda is 31.2 meters. Each level has a wide eave, and the roof is designed with a gentle angle. As you go up to the higher floors, the sense of the roof becomes narrower, making it look taller. It is considered the masterpiece of the Ouchi culture. In fact, the Ruriko-ji Five-Storied Pagoda has influenced the Tokyo Skytree! The center pillar is used in the tower, making it earthquake-resistant. It's amazing to think that a building from hundreds of years ago has influenced the modern Skytree, showcasing the high level of technology of the people of the past.

At the Rurikoin Temple Museum located within the grounds of Rurikoin Temple, you can learn about the temple through models of the five-story pagoda's framework and explanations on panels. Additionally, there are exhibits of models and explanations of the 55 five-story pagodas found throughout Japan, allowing you to learn about differences in design based on region and time period. One of the highlights of this museum is finding the differences between the Rurikoin Temple's five-story pagoda and other famous pagodas such as the Horyuji Temple in Kyoto and Nara.

You can see the Ruriko-ji Five-Storied Pagoda illuminated from sunset to 10pm all year round. The pagoda floating in the darkness is definitely worth seeing if you've come to Yamaguchi. Additionally, every autumn, an event called "Yamaguchi Yurameki Corridor" is held in Kaizan Park, where about 1,000 candles are lit. The collaboration between the illuminated pagoda and the soft light of the candles is a sight to behold!

The five-story pagoda of Rurikō-ji Temple can be enjoyed in various ways depending on the season. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom and you can especially enjoy night cherry blossoms illuminated along with the five-story pagoda at night. In addition, in February and March, you can enjoy the charming atmosphere of plum blossoms, in summer, the fresh greenery, in autumn, the stunning autumn leaves, and in winter, the snow-covered scenery. So no matter what time you come, you're sure to be excited.

Rurikō-ji Temple's five-story pagoda occasionally holds a "special viewing" where the interior Buddha statues and other items are open to the public. The last special viewing was held from September to November 2022, and before that, it was in October 2017! During this period, you can enter inside the fence surrounding the tower, which is usually off-limits, and see valuable Buddha statues and scriptures. Although opportunities like this are rare, if you happen to visit during the special viewing period, please take your time to explore and enjoy the experience!