The five-storied pagoda at Rurikōji temple was built in 1442, and is the only National Treasure in Yamaguchi City. The feudal lord Ōuchi Moriakira, who used Yamaguchi as his base to extend his power, erected it to pray for the memory of his older brother, Yoshihiro.

The pagoda is 31.2 meters tall, and is noted for its cypress shingled roof constructed using cypress (hinoki) bark. Weathering has meant that the shingled roof of the pagoda is being completely replaced for the first time in about seventy years. It is scheduled to be completed in March 2026.

During the work, the external protective sheeting will be decorated with designs inspired by the ideas of the Ōuchi clan, on the theme of “Elevating the mind of the Ōuchi clan, who caused the Ōuchi culture to bloom, into spatial art.” In addition, the entire area of Kayama Park will be used for a spatial presentation, and other limited-time-only events will be held. Enjoy these events, which will let you sense the beauty and history of this five-storied pagoda with all five senses.

Project nickname: “The Elevation of Ōuchi Culture”
Now, when the pagoda is concealed, is the time when it can be elevated, sublimated, into a mystical space in the form of art that expresses the Ōuchi culture from the perspectives of the past and the present.