Stroll through the temple district at Gōgen-ji Temple with its famous red walls said to turn red no matter how many times they are repainted
About this spot
Familiarly known as the "Red Wall Temple," this is a Pure Land Buddhist temple with a history stretching back to Kuroda Kanbe's arrival in Nakatsu. There is a legend that the retainers of the former lord Utsunomiya Shigefusa, who was killed by conspirators of the castle lord Kuroda clan, fought hard at this temple, and since then, whenever the walls are repainted white, they seep red, so it was eventually decided to paint them red. The vivid red walls that line the street along the temple are an iconic landscape of Nakatsu castle town and popular as a photo spot. The surrounding area, called the temple district, is lined with temples, and a leisurely stroll enjoying the contrast between white and red walls makes for a quiet, fitting conclusion to your day in the castle town.
Tips
Be respectful when visiting the temple grounds. The red wall street is a residential road, so be mindful of traffic when taking photographs. The temple district is home to temples with individual character; if you have time, take a circuit around the surrounding area as well.
Best time to visit
Plan for approximately 1 hour. Late afternoon light at an angle makes the red walls appear even deeper in color.
Access & map
〒871-0075 Oita Prefecture, Nakatsu City, Teramachi 973
Model course featuring this spot
Nakatsu: A Walking Tour of Nakatsu Castle, Fukuzawa Yukichi's Former Residence, and a Castle Town Famous for Fried Chicken
Oita
Explore features & model courses
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