YamaguchiTravel

Gazing Up at Japan's Three Most Renowned Pagodas – A National Treasure Five-Story Tower in Morning Light

About this spot

A Soto Zen temple standing within Kouyama Park, its five-story pagoda on the grounds is designated a National Treasure and counted among Japan's three most renowned pagodas, alongside Horyu-ji in Nara and Daigo-ji in Kyoto. The tower, hailed as the finest masterpiece of Ouchi culture, features a cypress bark-shingled roof that curves gracefully, and its well-proportioned height of approximately 31 meters captivates all who behold it. The view across the pond is truly like a painting come to life, and in the clear morning light, the tower's reflection shimmers in the water's surface, creating an even more compelling scene. Within the park, you'll also find the Moori clan's burial ground, Kouyama Bochi, and a remarkable stone pavement known as "Nightingale floors" (uguisu bari) that produces an unusual sound when struck—a fun experience to try together.

Tips

Free parking is available at Kouyama Park. In the morning, there are fewer tourists, making it an ideal time to have the tower practically to yourself. In addition to the classic angle from before the pond, try approaching the base of the tower for an upward-looking perspective. Be sure to clap your hands on the nightingale floors to experience the echo.

Best time to visit

Approximately 1 hour. In the morning, backlighting is minimal, crowds are sparse, and you can leisurely photograph the tower's reflection in the pond.