Okayama has many beautiful spots to view 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 Ward Okayama City , is the Motoyama of the Mogami sect of Buddhism. It enshrines the Great Bodhisattva of the Supreme Sutra King ( Mogami-sama/Inari-sama), the Eight Great Dragon Kings (the god of water), Kishimojin (the guardian deity of children), and Sanmen Daikokuten.
About the maples at Ryusenji Temple
The maple trees at Ryusenji Temple were planted after naturally sprouting Japanese maples were grown in flowerpots. This initiative was started 35 years ago by the previous head priest so that believers could feel at ease, and currently there are approximately 2,000 maple trees in the temple.
Maintaining the maple trees on such a vast site is no mean feat. In recent years, the temple has been paying close attention to the trees, carefully watering them throughout the grounds to prevent them from withering 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 maple trees.
Highlights
From the entrance, you can already see the red leaves spreading out, giving a glimpse of the beauty of the temple grounds.
Maple trees near the main shrine
Near the main shrine, you will find a picturesque scene that embodies autumn in Japan, and the vivid 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 surrounding colorful mountains is breathtaking.
When you look at it from a panoramic angle, you can enjoy the beautiful symphony of the torii gate and autumn leaves.
Saka
The biggest highlight is Saka. The scenery is like a tunnel of maple leaves, and if you take a photo from the Saka, you can take a photo that looks like you are surrounded by the bright red of autumn.
Maple forest
In the maple forest, the vibrant autumn leaves and the carpet of red fallen leaves overhead will make you truly appreciate how wonderful Japan's four seasons are.
Maple trees Oku the main shrine of Mitaki
There are also maple trees Oku the main shrine of Mitaki, which will soon be taking on the autumnal guise.
The new "Ryuo Falls"
The Dragon King of Mitaki, which will be renovated on December 25, 2023, appears black but has a slight green tint. The guardian dragon of Ryusenji Temple is a deep green, and it is clad in that same hue.
His strong-looking face and shining golden eyes are very impressive, and I also heard that he resembles the head priest.
When is the best time to see the autumn leaves at Ryusenji Temple?
The autumn leaves will be changing color later in 2024, and as of November 16th, some leaves are changing color and some are still green. The best time to see the leaves is usually mid-November, but the beautiful autumn leaves will soon be at their peak, so please come and visit.
Cute Zodiac Statues
Surrounding the statue of Saint Nichiren near the worship hall are stone statues of the twelve zodiac guardians. The snake representing next year's Year of the Snake is a cute heart-shaped one! It's said that touching its body will bring you wealth and prosperity, so be sure to give it a try.
You can get amulets and temple seals at the temple office.
You can also get amulets and talismans at the temple office. We recommend the "Yuzu Senbei" (Yuzu crackers) made with yuzu from Okayama Prefecture as a souvenir.
I received a goshuin (temple seal) at the temple office. The kanji character for "dragon" is written in a style that reminds me 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 permitted on the premises, so please enjoy a leisurely stroll on foot.
[Mogami Motoyama Ryusenji Temple]
Address: 900 Shimoashimori, Kita-ku , Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture Kita Ward
Access (car): Approximately 10 minutes from Okayama Soja IC on the Okayama Expressway
Public transport: 10 minutes by taxi from JR 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 maple trees that the temple staff have painstakingly cultivated. It's sure to be an unforgettable autumn memory.
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