Ryuzoji, Buddhist temple in Tamba-Sasayama, Japan
Ryuzoji stands at the foot of Makigamine mountain near the Ryuzoji River, which forms the source of the Muko River system. The temple grounds spread across forested slopes with hiking paths along mountain streams and natural watercourses.
The temple was founded in 645 and later received backing from Hideyoshi Toyotomi as well as forest lands from the second Tokugawa shogunate. These connections allowed it to remain an important religious site across the centuries.
The temple conducts regular Goma fire rituals, a foundational Buddhist ceremony that carries on the spiritual traditions of the Tendai sect. Visitors can observe these rituals and understand how such practices remain central to the religious life of the place today.
The grounds lie about 7 kilometers from the castle district and are best explored on foot, especially if using the hiking trails. Sturdy footwear is advisable since the paths are mountainous and can become slippery after rain.
Old maps from the Edo period mark this location as a maple viewing destination, with Japanese maple trees lining the mountain streams. This tradition of seasonal visiting has partly continued to this day and draws visitors especially in autumn.
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