Zuiryu-ji — Attraction in Takaoka

It is big. You can walk through most parts; so many in fact, that I couldn’t even tell where the priests’ private quarters were.

On the other hand, it is exceedingly plain. That may be a zen thing. The rock garden - if that is officially what it is - is just a giant rectangle of small stones raked into stripes. No real pattern, no large stone “objects” grass. The interior “garden” is just grass.

The layout is interesting. More like a British abbey or cathedral to me. Then again, it is rather plain.

I can’t honestly rate it low. It’s just not very interesting to my non-specialist non-Buddhist eyes. I tend to prefer ones with more dramatic gardens, or something a bit more unique in the decor. Lots of people seem to love it though....

Zuiryuji is an impressive complex that can be visited regardless of the weather. You can experience the temple while walking down its long halls or outside and get good results either way. It is calming in a very Soto Zen way and I found myself quite content even though rain usually takes me right out of the temple hopping mood. Also it was built by Maeda Toshitsune which is cool by itself. This temple would not look out of place in Nara or Kamakura. Great Zen...

A national treasure that is all for you. This temple is the typical example of the Edo period zen Buddhist temple. The construction using wooden structures, elevated slightly off the ground with tiled roofs and sliding doors. Free parking was available at the parking lot adjacent to the temple. Entrance fee was ¥500 per adult. There were not many tourists visiting the temple making it easier to enjoy the tranquility and perform meditation without unnecessary...