Koryu-ji

Koryu-ji is a Buddhist temple in the mountainous landscape of Ehime Prefecture featuring a three-story pagoda, multiple prayer halls, and stone monuments arranged across its grounds. The complex brings together various buildings and structures that create an expansive sacred space.

The temple was founded in 642 and later became an imperial temple under Emperor Kammu. The site gained influence through visits from important Buddhist masters Gyoki and Kukai during different periods of Japanese history.

The thousand-armed Kannon statue in the main hall and the nationally designated bronze bells throughout the grounds show how this place has shaped Buddhist practice for centuries. Visitors walking through the temple feel the continuing role of this site in local spiritual life today.

The temple is accessible daily and provides parking on the grounds for both cars and buses. A taxi ride from JR Niihama Station takes about 15 minutes to reach the entrance.

The temple prepares Buddhist vegetarian meals and tofu hot pot dishes by reservation using seasonal vegetables harvested from the surrounding forest. This offering connects spiritual practice with local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.