AT A GLANCE
Why go?
Ryusen-in is a small Rinzai Zen sub-temple tucked within the Zuisenji temple complex at the foot of Inuyama Castle, founded in 1468 by the eminent monk Keizan Sōryū. Though modest in scale, its 550-year history, connection to the samurai defense of Inuyama Castle, and setting among a rare surviving cluster of Zen sub-temples make it a rewarding stop on a quiet temple walk near the Kiso River.↗↗↗
The temple sits just two minutes from Meitetsu Inuyama Playland Station, making it easy to combine with a visit to Inuyama Castle or a riverside stroll along the Kiso.↗
Good to know
- Buddhist temple
- 1 kmfrom Inuyama center
- 4.6 / 516 reviews
- Inuyama
A Sub-Temple with Samurai Ties
Ryusen-in began life in 1468 (Ōnin 2) under the name Daikian, established by Keizan Sōryū, a high monk who served as abbot at both Myōshin-ji in Kyoto and Zuisenji here in Inuyama. Keizan's lineage—known as the Ryūsen branch—was one of four that rotated stewardship of Zuisenji for centuries, and his successors shaped the religious character of the entire complex.
