Fukujoji

This temple is said to have been founded in the Nara period and stands near the summit of a mountain about 500m above sea level, overlooking the Saijo Basin. The main hall's large, colorful altar and shrine, built in the 15th century, are designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. They are thought to have been donated by the Ouchi clan of Yamaguchi, who built Kagamiyama Castle, and letters from Emperor Godaigo and Mori Terumoto have also been preserved. Within the grounds, there are giant trees such as cedars, horse chestnuts, and Japanese mokkoku trees, which have been designated as natural monuments by the prefecture. There are also 1,800 rhododendrons of about 60 different varieties, which bloom in a variety of colors from late April to early May.