What to know
Zuiryuji Temple (瑞龍寺, Zuiryūji) is a Soto Zen Buddhist temple in Takaoka, designated a national treasure by the Japanese government. Completed around 1659, it was built to honor the late local lord, Maeda Toshinaga. His mausoleum lies about one kilometer east of the temple.
The temple features a symmetrical layout with corridors linking its buildings, typical of Soto Zen monasteries. It comprises several structures, including the imposing Sanmon Gate that greets visitors entering the inner grounds.
The two main halls are the Butsuden Hall, housing a statue of the historical Buddha (Shaka Nyorai), and the Hatto Hall, a fine example of early Edo Period temple architecture.
A unique deity worshipped here is Ususama Myo-o, a guardian of Buddhism. A large statue of Ususama Myo-o stands in the Hatto Hall, while a smaller one is at the entrance to the public washroom. He is considered the guardian of the washroom, believed to purify and prevent diseases.
Zuiryuji Temple lies between Takaoka and Shin-Takaoka Stations. It is a 10-15 minute walk from Takaoka Station or a 15-20 minute walk from Shin-Takaoka Station.
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- 9:00 to 16:30 (until 16:00 from mid December through January)
- Closed
- No closing days
- Admission
- 500 yen (~$3.2)
- English name
- Zuiryuji Temple
- Original name
- Zuiryuji Temple
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.