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Minoosan Ryuanji Temple

Osaka Prefecture · Japan

8 story sections

"Ryuanji" has been the center point of the waterfalls since ancient times. Here exists a dojo where mountainous training was often held at. Mountain Priests gather here from across the country in April, July and November for a special sacrificial ritual. “Benzaiten”, the god of wealth, is enshrined in the temple’s main hall and is reported to be Japan's oldest of the Seven Deities of good luck.

History & cultureBY TELLBY

Contents

8 sections · tap a section for its opening lines
  1. 1Orientation

    Welcome to Minoosan Ryuanji, a site of profound historical and spiritual significance nestled within the lush valleys of Minoo. As we stand here at the threshold of this ancient sanctuary, it is essential to understand that…

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  2. 2The Main Gate and the Transition from the Mundane

    We begin our journey at the temple's main gate, or Sanmon. This structure serves as a symbolic boundary, separating the mundane world of the Minoo town below from the sacred precinct of the mountain. …

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  3. 3The Benzaiten-do: Honoring the Muse of the Mountain

    Proceeding deeper into the complex, we arrive at the Benzaiten-do, the primary hall dedicated to the goddess Benzaiten. This site is particularly noteworthy as it is claimed to be one of the three oldest Benzaiten shrines in…

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  4. 4The Phoenix Hall and Esoteric Symbols

    Adjacent to the main halls, we find structures that house specific esoteric artifacts and symbols. One such element is the imagery of the Phoenix, or Ho-o, which represents rebirth and the auspicious arrival of a virtuous ruler…

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  5. 5The Garden of Stones and Moss

    Turning our attention to the landscape, Ryuanji features gardens that emphasize the natural topography of the mountain. Unlike the highly manicured Zen gardens of Kyoto, the greenery here feels more organic, yet it is carefully…

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  6. 6The Shugenja Training Grounds

    Behind the main buildings lie the areas traditionally used for the rigorous training of the Shugenja. While modern visitors may see these as simple forest paths, to an initiate, this was a classroom without walls. …

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  7. 7The Riverside Path and the Soundscape

    As we prepare to leave the immediate temple grounds and rejoin the path toward the waterfall, let us walk for a moment along the riverside. This area is essential for understanding the environmental context of Ryuanji. …

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  8. 8Closing

    As we conclude our exploration of Minoosan Ryuanji, I hope you carry with you a deeper appreciation for the complex tapestry of belief and nature that defines this site. We have moved from the symbolic gateway of the Sanmon to…

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What is Minoosan Ryuanji Temple?

Minoosan Ryuanji Temple is a place in Osaka Prefecture · Japan with 8 story sections on Tellby. You can read the opening of each section on this page; the sound plays in the app.

Key facts
LocationOsaka Prefecture · Japan
TypeHeritage
Story sections8
Text languageEnglish
Coordinates34.8423, 135.4720
Last updated

Nearby places

within a 5-minute walk
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