Pass through the flat urban area and proceed up the hill. You will see houses built on sloping ground from the Taisho era (1912–1926) to the early Showa era (mid-1920s to early 1940s), which were spared from the destruction of the Second World War. As the prewar population of Kure surged, people moved from flat ground to the slopes in search of land. The view of houses built on tiered land is unique to Kure. At the top of the slope is the Kannonji Temple known for having a spot where wishes are said to come true. The temple offers various activities.
Rent an E-bike you like at Auto Ogasawara, and let’s go!
10minutes
The “100 Steps” are a stone staircase on a steep slope, flanked on both sides by stylish houses combining Japanese and Western elements. The houses were built above stacked stone foundations during the era of the Imperial Japanese Navy. The 100 Steps in Ryojo actually have more than 100 steps. Try climbing up the steps one by one to count how many there really are!
5minutes
Nanamagari is a winding and sloping road about 150 meters long. The road is said to have been used by ox carts and horses until around the end of the Taisho era (mid-1920s). Nanamagari offers views of the beautifully shaped 100 Steps and is a photo spot unique to Kure.
10minutes
The temple parking lot is located behind the Ryojo Junior High School tennis court. Park your E-bike here and go to Kannonji Temple on foot. Climbing the steep stairs to the temple is hard work, but at the hilltop awaits a spectacular view overlooking the city of Kure.
5minutes
Visitors can partake in activities, such as waterfall meditation at a location that traces its origin to a shrine dedicated to Buddhist priest Kukai, known posthumously as Kobo Daishi. Also offered are homa stick burning, meditation, and sutra copying. You can choose a course of your choice, ranging from “Introduction to Detoxification” which lasts under an hour, to a full-day ascetic experience. Clear your mind and lighten your mind and body.
* Same-day reservations are accepted for sutra copying. Other activities require advance reservations.
