龍拈寺

Ryuunen-ji is a Buddhist temple in Toyohashi with multiple structures, including a mountain gate and numerous statues from different historical periods. The grounds are surrounded by mixed forest that offers visitors changing views throughout the seasons.

The temple was founded during the Nara period and later received important architectural changes through the influence of Minamoto no Yoritomo. This early establishment and subsequent redesign made the place an example of how Buddhist architecture evolved across multiple periods.

The temple serves as a place where visitors can see how Buddhist artistic traditions developed over centuries through its collection of statues and buildings. The works displayed here reflect the religious beliefs and creative skills that shaped this space throughout its long history.

The site is located in the Tami-cho area and can be explored on foot through walking paths that wind through the surrounding forest. Visitors should take their time and consider visiting during different seasons to fully experience the changing natural environment.

One of the most remarkable statues here contains 104 smaller replicas hidden beneath the crown of the figure when removed. This hidden collection makes the statue an extraordinary discovery from both historical and artistic perspectives.