Temple · Yabakei (Nakatsu)

Rakanji Temple (Yabakei) 羅漢寺

Cliffside temple in Yabakei gorge built into caves holding over 3,700 stone Buddhist figures, including Japan's oldest set of 500 arhats.

Getting thereJR Nakatsu Station, Oita Kotsu bus to Nakajima, 20 min walk

Time needed1-2 hours

Best timeMid November (Yabakei autumn colours)

AddressHonyabakeimachi, Nakatsu, Oita

About

Rakanji is the head of Japan's Rakan temples and is set high on a rock face above the Yamakuni River. Its gate and halls are built into caves, where thousands of small stone figures and rice-paddle prayers fill the walls. The Muro-kutsu cave's 500 arhats are an Important Cultural Property and the oldest such group in Japan.

Highlights

Halls built into caves on a cliff
Over 3,700 stone figures
Muro-kutsu 500 arhats (Important Cultural Property)
Views over Yabakei gorge

Tips

Steep 15 min climb from the base; the old chairlift has closed
Combine with Ao no Domon tunnel and Yabakei Bridge
Bus from JR Nakatsu Station to Nakajima stop, then 20 min walk

Open in Google Maps · Info checked 2026-10-11

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Rakanji Temple (Yabakei) 羅漢寺

About

Highlights

Tips

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