Ryōtan-ji Temple – A Historic Zen Temple with a Stunning Japanese Garden

A Timeless Sanctuary of History and Natural Beauty

Nestled in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture, Ryōtan-ji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple with a legacy spanning over 1,300 years. Founded in the Nara period (733 AD), the temple became the ancestral temple of the Ii clan, one of Japan's most influential samurai families. It also shares historical ties with Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo period.

Today, Ryōtan-ji is best known for its beautiful gardens, designed by the renowned landscape architect Kobori Enshū. Designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty, the gardens and temple architecture offer visitors a tranquil retreat steeped in history and culture.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a garden lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Ryōtan-ji Temple provides an unforgettable glimpse into Japan’s spiritual and aesthetic traditions.

Explore the Rich History of Ryōtan-ji Temple

The Legacy of the Ii Clan and Tokugawa Connections

Ryōtan-ji was founded by the Buddhist monk Gyōki in 733 AD. During the Sengoku period, the temple became the family temple of the Ii clan, one of the most powerful samurai families. The grave of Ii Naomasa, a legendary samurai and one of Tokugawa Ieyasu’s Four Heavenly Kings, is located here.

Naomasa played a pivotal role in securing the Tokugawa shogunate’s rule, making Ryōtan-ji an essential site for those interested in Japan’s feudal history. The temple grounds also contain graves and monuments dedicated to other members of the Ii clan, offering a direct connection to Japan’s samurai heritage.

The Magnificent Garden – A Masterpiece by Kobori Enshū

One of Ryōtan-ji’s highlights is its stunning Japanese garden, designed by Kobori Enshū, a famous landscape architect of the Edo period. This garden is classified as a Chisen Kanshō-shiki Teien (池泉鑑賞式庭園), or a pond-viewing garden, where the scenery is meant to be admired from inside the temple’s main hall.

The garden features a serene pond surrounded by meticulously placed rocks, lush greenery, and seasonal flowers. Every element of the landscape is arranged to create a harmonious balance between nature and human artistry.

During autumn, vivid maple leaves reflect beautifully on the pond’s surface, creating a breathtaking scene that resembles a traditional Japanese painting. The changing seasons offer different perspectives, making every visit a unique experience.

Traditional Temple Architecture and Historic Artifacts

Ryōtan-ji’s main hall showcases the refined architectural style of the Edo period. Inside, visitors can find historical scrolls, statues, and artifacts related to the temple’s history and the Ii clan.

The intricate fusuma (sliding door) paintings and wooden structures reveal the craftsmanship of Japan’s traditional temple construction. Every corner of the temple exudes a timeless elegance that transports visitors back to Japan’s samurai era.

How to Enjoy Your Visit to Ryōtan-ji Temple

Admire the Garden from the Shoin (VIP Room)

Unlike strolling gardens, pond-viewing gardens are meant to be appreciated from within the temple. Take a seat in the Shoin (VIP Room) or on the engawa (wooden veranda) and admire how the pond, stones, trees, and sky merge into a single picturesque frame.

Discover Samurai History and Cultural Treasures

The temple’s historical exhibits and preserved artifacts provide a fascinating look into the samurai traditions of the Ii clan and their role in Tokugawa Japan. Those interested in Zen Buddhism, samurai culture, and Edo-period history will find Ryōtan-ji an insightful destination.

A Place Where History and Nature Coexist

Ryōtan-ji Temple is more than just a historical site—it is a harmonious fusion of nature, architecture, and spirituality. Whether you are captivated by its breathtaking garden, intrigued by its samurai heritage, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, this temple offers a truly immersive experience.

If you’re visiting Shizuoka or Hamamatsu, be sure to explore Ryōtan-ji and discover the timeless beauty of Japanese Zen culture and landscape design.