Okayama has many great spots to see autumn leaves, but this time we will introduce a hidden gem that only a few people know about. Its name is Ryusenji Temple.
2024.11.21What is Ryusenji Temple?
Ryusenji Temple, located in Ashimori, Kita-ku, Kita Ward Okayama City , is the head temple of the Nichiren sect of Buddhism. It enshrines the deities Saikou Kyoo Daibosatsu (Saikou-sama/Oinari-sama), Hachidairyuo (God of Water), Kishimojin (Guardian of Children), and Sanmen Daikokuten.
About the maple trees at Ryusenji Temple
The maples at Ryusenji Temple were planted after naturally sprouting Japanese maples were grown in flowerpots. The previous head priest began this initiative 35 years ago to "provide a place of comfort and relaxation for the believers," and currently there are about 2,000 maples in the temple.
Maintaining the maples on such a vast site is no mean feat. In recent years, the temple has been paying close attention to watering the maples carefully throughout the grounds to prevent them from dying in the harsh summer heat. It is thanks to the efforts and love of the temple staff that we are able to enjoy the beautiful maples.
Highlights
From the entrance, you can already see the red leaves of the temple, giving a glimpse of the beauty of the temple grounds.
Maple trees near the main hall
Near the main shrine, you will find a picturesque scene that embodies autumn in Japan, and the brilliant vermilion color will make you exclaim, "Wow!"
Ryuo Pond and the vermilion torii gate
In particular, the view of the large vermilion torii gate at Ryuo Pond and the colorful mountains surrounding it is breathtaking.
When viewed from a panoramic angle, the torii gates and autumn leaves create a beautiful symphony.
Momiji Hill
The biggest attraction is Momijizaka. The scenery is like a tunnel of maple leaves, and if you take a photo from the top of the hill, you can take a picture that looks like you are surrounded by the bright red of autumn.
Maple forest
In the maple forest, the brilliant autumn leaves overhead and the carpet of red fallen leaves will make you realize just how wonderful Japan's four seasons are.
Maple trees behind the main hall of Otaki
There are also maple trees behind the main shrine of Mitaki, which will soon be taking on an autumn look.
The new "Ryuo Falls"
The Dragon King of Mitaki, which will be renovated on December 25, 2023, looks black but has a slight green hue. The guardian dragon of Ryusenji Temple is a deep green color, and it is clad in that color.
His strong-looking face and shining golden eyes were very impressive, and I also heard that he resembled the head priest.
When is the best time to see the autumn leaves at Ryusenji Temple?
The autumn leaves are changing later in 2024, and as of November 16th, some leaves have changed color and some are still green. The best time to see the leaves is usually mid-November, but the beautiful autumn leaves will be at their peak from now on, so please come and visit.
Cute Zodiac Statues
Surrounding the statue of Saint Nichiren near the worship hall are stone statues of the guardian snakes of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals. The snake for next year's Year of the Snake is a cute heart-shaped one! It is said that touching its body will bring you wealth and prosperity, so be sure to give it a try.
You can get amulets and goshuin at the temple office.
You can also purchase amulets and talismans at the temple office. As a souvenir, we recommend the "Yuzu Senbei" crackers made with yuzu from Okayama Prefecture.
I received a goshuin (red seal) at the temple office. The kanji character for "dragon" was written in a style reminiscent of the Dragon King, and I felt as if I was being protected.
Access and parking information
There is a first parking lot to the right of the temple gate, and a second parking lot is also available. During the autumn foliage season, the grounds above the first parking lot are also open to the public. The temple grounds are large, but cars are not allowed inside, so please enjoy a leisurely stroll on foot.
[Mogami Honzan Mitaki Ryusenji Temple]
Address: 900 Shimoashimori, Kita-ku , Okayama City, Kita Ward
Access (car): Approximately 10 minutes from Okayama Soja IC on the Okayama Expressway
Access (public): 10 minutes by taxi from JR Bitchu Takamatsu Station or JR Ashimori Station. 10 minutes by taxi from Okayama Airport.
lastly
Be sure to visit Ryusenji Temple during the autumn foliage season and enjoy the beauty of the maples that the temple staff have painstakingly cultivated. It's sure to become an unforgettable autumn memory.
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