Guide
Located in Hikone City, Shiga Prefecture, Ryotanj-ji is a temple belonging to the Myoshin-ji school of the Rinzai sect. The temple is home to numerous cultural assets of immense historical value, such as the sliding door paintings (fusuma-e) attributed to the Edo-period poet Morikawa Kyoroku, and architectural structures that incorporate remnants of the former Sawayama Castle. In particular, the "Horai-ikeisen Garden," a beautiful pond-stroll garden, is a designated scenic spot of Hikone City, inviting visitors into a world of profound stillness.
Ryotanj-ji shares a deep connection with the Ii family, high-ranking officials of the Hikone domain. The temple grounds serve as a significant historical site, housing the graves of Kimoda Tomo (Hikone Gozen), the mother of Ii Naosuke, and the monument of Riwa, a concubine of Ii Naosuke. Furthermore, the history of the temple dates back to 1617, and it preserves architectural legacies that tell the story of castle-building culture, such as the tea room "Hyohyo-an," which was constructed using the gates of Sawayama Castle.
There are many diverse attractions to enjoy at Ryotanj-ji. First, the "Horai-ikeisen Garden," a designated scenic spot, offers a breathtaking view of a landscape centered around a beautiful pond. Inside the main hall (Hojo), you can observe 56 sliding door panels attributed to the Edo-period poet Morikawa Kyoroku, allowing for a close-up look at traditional Japanese art styles. Additionally, the "Fudaraku Garden" in the south garden is a dry landscape (Karesansui) garden that evokes the quiet spirit of Zen. Other notable features scattered throughout the grounds include a statue of Ishida Mitsunari, a historic Sanmon gate, and a bell tower, ensuring new discoveries with every step.
Ryotanj-ji reveals different expressions with each season. We recommend visiting during times when the garden's greenery is particularly lush or when the seasonal changes are most apparent. Bright daylight is ideal for observing the shimmering water of the pond garden and the vibrant colors of the seasonal plants. For those seeking deep meditation, visiting during quieter hours can provide a more profound experience of the garden's tranquil atmosphere.
Visitors can experience traditional Japanese architecture and garden design through all five senses. The presence of the tea room "Hyohyo-an" symbolizes the fusion of castle culture and the spirit of tea ceremony, offering a quiet moment to reflect on the historical background. Walking through the temple grounds to explore buildings made from castle remnants and sites linked to historical figures provides a valuable opportunity to learn about Japanese history.
Ryotanj-ji is a key part of the Hikone sightseeing route. Nearby attractions include Ii Shrine, as well as other historical sites in Shiga such as Choju-in and Seiryo-ji, which help deepen your understanding of Hikone's culture. Combining a visit here with the nearby Hikone Castle area will make for a truly enriching travel itinerary.
When visiting the temple grounds, please keep the following in mind: