Kozan Park

Kozan Park is a park centered around the historic Rurikoji Temple, often called “the Kyoto of the West,” with origins in the Muromachi period. Its most famous highlight is the Rurikoji Five-Story Pagoda, regarded as the greatest masterpiece among Muromachi-period buildings and counted as one of Japan’s Three Great Pagodas. The pagoda stands 31.2 meters tall and, while not flashy, has a strong traditional Japanese charm; it is registered as a National Treasure and is a must-see. The park is also beautiful across the seasons: in spring, about 170 Somei Yoshino cherry trees bloom, and in autumn, vivid red foliage attracts many visitors from both inside and outside the prefecture. Other highlights include “Chokuryutei,” where Saigo Takamori and Okubo Toshimichi are said to have gathered; “Rozando,” used for tea ceremonies; Kozan Cemetery (Mori family graves); and a snow sculpture statue. Access to Kozan Park: by car, about 15 minutes from Chugoku Expressway “Yamaguchi IC,” with parking available at the park. From JR Shinkansen “Shin-Yamaguchi Station,” take a bus and get off at “Kencho-mae,” then walk about 10 minutes. From JR “Yamaguchi Station,” take the community bus (Ouchi Route) bound for “Kozan Park Gojunoto,” and get off at the final stop right nearby.