Rurikoji Temple — Five-Story Pagoda National Treasure

Rurikoji Temple (瑠璃光寺) is home to one of Japan's three most beautiful five-story pagodas — a National Treasure built in 1442 that has survived 580 years without major reconstruction. The pagoda stands 31.2 meters tall with graceful proportions and upturned eaves typical of Muromachi architecture, constructed entirely of Japanese cypress using traditional joinery without nails. Its reflection in the adjacent pond creates Yamaguchi's most iconic image, particularly during cherry blossom season when petals frame the structure.

The pagoda's architectural refinement reflects Yamaguchi's historical importance as 'the Kyoto of the West' — during the Muromachi period (1336–1573), the Ouchi clan who ruled Yamaguchi imported Kyoto culture, building temples, gardens, and patronizing arts. Rurikoji's pagoda is one of only three remaining five-story pagodas from the Muromachi era (the others are at Horyuji and Daigoji in Kyoto). The temple grounds include traditional gardens, a small museum, and the Mori clan cemetery, but the pagoda dominates visually and historically.