A Rinzai Eigenji-ha temple in Takahashi, originating from an Ankokuji founded in 1339 by Ashikaga Takauji. Its famous karesansui garden is attributed to the master Edo-era tea master and designer Kobori Enshu, who created it while serving as Bitchu Province commissioner (1604-1617). The crane-and-turtle garden with Mount Horai rock groupings is designated a National Scenic Spot.

Raikyuji was founded in 1339 (Ryakuo 2) as one of the Ankokuji temples built across Japan by Ashikaga Takauji, the first Muromachi shogun, to pray for national peace. The temple was later revived by Ueno Raikyu, lord of Bitchu Matsuyama Castle, and renamed in his honor. Between 1604 and 1617, Kobori…