Bankei’s temple · Aboshi, Himeji, Japan
Ryumon-ji.
A pilgrimage of gratitude.
Some teachings change the course of a life. Visiting the place where Bankei taught can be a way of saying thank you.
The place behind the words
Bankei’s temple,
still here.
天徳山 龍門寺
Ryumon-ji was founded in 1661 as Bankei’s principal teaching temple. Its surviving buildings carry that history into the present. Himeji’s heritage record describes an unusually simple and irregular arrangement of buildings, traditionally associated with Bankei’s wishes. Himeji heritage record ↗
The temple also preserves materials connected with Bankei. Himeji’s visitor guide lists 103 items associated with him, alongside paintings and Buddhist images. Ask what can be seen when you arrange a visit. Official visitor guide ↗
A living temple
Ryumon-ji belongs to the Myoshin-ji branch of Rinzai Zen. A pilgrimage here is a meeting with a living institution and the people caring for it. Respect for their present practice is part of honoring Bankei’s legacy. Temple affiliation ↗
Make the journey thoughtfully
Arrive as a guest.
Contact the temple before making a special journey. Ask when a visit would be welcome, what is open, and whether there are any arrangements to make.
Visiting the grounds and buildings
Follow the temple’s guidance about where to enter, shoes, quiet, and photography. Ask before photographing interiors, worshippers, or practice. Allow the visit to take the shape the temple can welcome that day.
Sitting or staying at the temple
Myoshin-ji publishes a residential practice listing for Ryumon-ji that requires an application. The published residential program currently accepts only men. Ask directly about current eligibility, dates, fees, language support, and any opportunities for a shorter visit. Read the practice listing (Japanese) ↗
If you are still learning Japanese
A short introduction, your proposed date, and a simple explanation of your connection to Bankei are a good beginning. Ask what language support is available. Keep the Japanese name and address below with you, and ask a Japanese speaker to help with arrangements if needed.
A word of gratitude
A simple
thank you.
Bankei’s teaching reached us because people preserved his words and cared for the places connected with his life. This page acknowledges that care, and the people continuing it today.
A pilgrimage can be a personal expression of gratitude: learning the temple’s history, arriving respectfully, and thanking its present custodians.
Official visitor informationThis is an independent visitor guide. Unborn Zen is not affiliated with Ryumon-ji and does not represent the temple or collect donations on its behalf.
Sources & current information
Checked . Confirm visiting and practice arrangements directly before travelling.