Ryōtan-ji

Ryōtan-ji is a Buddhist temple in Hikone featuring a white sand garden named Fudaraku, where 48 stones are arranged to represent mountain ranges, deities, and ocean elements. The garden layout reflects spiritual concepts through the careful positioning of these stones.

The temple was founded during the Nara period by Gyoki and later became the family temple of the Ii clan before being relocated to the base of Mount Sawayama in 1601. This move marked a significant shift in its role within the region's power structure.

The main hall displays sliding door paintings by Koroku Morikawa and contains an ink landscape depicting Mount Horai that holds cultural property status.

The temple welcomes visitors during daily opening hours that vary by season, with shorter times during the colder months. Plan your visit accordingly by checking the current schedule before arriving.

The temple grounds housed Japan's first Onzuka during the Edo period, a training facility that educated over 200 monks. This historical function makes it a significant site in the country's Buddhist training history.