Ryugen-ji, Pure Land Buddhist temple in Minato-ku, Japan
Ryugen-ji is a Buddhist temple in Minato featuring a three-story wooden pagoda that stands out in the neighborhood. The structure displays traditional Japanese architectural details, including hand-carved roof supports and intricately designed exterior features.
The temple was founded in 1600 by Inaba Sadamichi, the first lord of Usuki Domain. Following destructive fires, it underwent significant reconstruction during the Meiji period that shaped its present form.
This temple serves as a center for Pure Land Buddhist practice and devotion in the urban setting of Minato. Visitors can observe how local practitioners maintain their spiritual traditions within the temple's spaces.
The temple grounds are accessible daily from sunrise until sunset for visitors to explore at their own pace. Meditation sessions take place on Saturday mornings and welcome both newcomers and those with experience.
The pagoda's roof supports are held up by sculptured figures with distinctly expressive faces that catch visitors' attention. This makes it one of only two surviving three-story wooden pagodas from the Edo period remaining in the Kyushu region.
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