Today I will be writing about the history and charm of Yamadera Temple (Risshakuji Temple), one of Yamagata's most popular tourist destinations.
History and origin of Yamadera Temple
Yamadera Temple was founded in the 850s during the Heian period, and its history spans an astounding 1,150 years. It is said that the temple was built in the rugged mountains for the monks to train. Since then, it has attracted many believers as a holy place for Buddhist training.
A pseudo-training session at Yamadera Temple
Visiting Yamadera Temple is not just about visiting the main hall, but the process of climbing the steep stone steps is also considered an experience of training and self-purification. It is a kind of pseudo-training. It is said that by continuing to climb the steps mindlessly, your worldly desires will disappear.
Indeed, with each step you take up the stone steps, the scenery gradually changes, and although the climb is tough, you will feel a sense of accomplishment and your soul will be cleansed as you approach the summit.
In fact, there are many sights to see along the way, so you can take your time enjoying them as you walk up the stone steps.
Don't worry, it's not all hard work as you can enjoy the climb at your own pace!
Traces of training that reveal the hardships faced by the founder
Looking up as you climb the stone steps, you can see here and there caves in the rough rock face where it is said that monks used to sit. You can also see many structures that have been built clinging to the rocks, giving you an idea of the hardships and life of the monks since the temple was founded. You can imagine the hardships of the founders and the harsh training scenes.
Matsuo Basho's "Semizuka"
It is also known that Matsuo Basho visited this place in 1689 and left behind the immortal haiku, "The quietness of the cicadas' voices seeping into the rocks." The "Semizuka" where Basho's haiku is said to be buried is still a place visited by many literature fans.
The architectural beauty of Yamadera and its many national treasures
Nemotochudo: The central building of Yamadera Temple, which is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. Inside the beautiful irimoya-style building is a seated statue of Yakushi Nyorai, a secret Buddha statue from the Heian period made from a single piece of wood. Of particular note is its value as Japan's oldest wooden building made from beech wood.
Godaido: This is Yamadera's best observation deck, built on the edge of a cliff. It offers a spectacular view of the surrounding area, and is especially popular during the autumn foliage season.
Mida Cave: It is said that the image of Buddha can be seen on the rock face carved by the wind and rain, and that good fortune will come to you if you can find it. It is also known as the oldest wooden building made of beech wood in Japan.
Kaizando: This hall enshrines Ennin, the founder of Risshakuji Temple, and houses a wooden statue of the great monk. Food and incense are offered here every morning and evening, making this a place where you can feel the deep history and faith of the temple.
Niomon: A beautiful gate made of Sai wood that was rebuilt in 1858, with two Nio statues on either side. This is the first step in exploring Yamadera Temple.
The natural beauty of Yamadera throughout the seasons is also one of its charms
The charm of Yamadera Temple is not only its architecture. The natural scenery, which changes with each season, also attracts visitors. You can enjoy completely different scenery depending on the season you visit, such as cherry blossoms in spring, vivid green in summer, autumn leaves, and snowy landscapes in winter.
The stone steps in particular are popular with trekking enthusiasts, as they offer a variety of landscapes despite their steep slopes. Nature itself serves as a place of training, and is an ideal place to refresh the body and mind.
Also, if you look at the size of the cedar trees, you can feel the long history of Yamadera. When you look up while walking through the deep cedar forest, you can almost hear the rattling echoes of the famous Studio Ghibli animation "Princess Mononoke" directed by Hayao Miyazaki.
End your trip with some local flavor
After sightseeing in Yamadera, why not try some local specialties at a restaurant around Yamadera Station? In particular, "tama konnyaku" is a long-standing Yamagata specialty, and is popular as a quick and easy food served on a skewer. There are also many handmade soba and Japanese sweets shops in the area, so you can enjoy eating your way around.
Access information
Yamadera Temple is easily accessible from Yamagata City, and if you are going by public transportation, it takes about 10 minutes from Yamagata Station to Yamadera Station on the JR Senzan Line. From Yamadera Station, it is about a 10-minute walk to the entrance of the temple.
If you are driving, get off at Yamagata Kita IC and it is about a 15-minute drive.
From Watausagi, it takes about an hour and a half to get to Yamagata Station by express bus, then we recommend transferring to the Senzan Line.
If you are going by car from Watausagi, we recommend getting on the highway from Tsuruoka IC and getting off at Yamagata Kita IC. It will take about 1 hour and 40 minutes to get there.
summary
Yamadera Temple continues to fascinate people for over a thousand years. Why not climb the stone steps, step by step, following in the footsteps of your predecessors and immerse yourself in the "tranquility" felt by Matsuo Basho?
I like climbing as if I'm going on a trek, and I visit the shrine from time to time to feel a small sense of accomplishment.
If you want to know more, please visit the official website!
Official website of Yamadera Temple (Hoshuzan Risshakuji Temple)
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