Unlocking the Secrets of Yakushiji Temple: How Ancient Wisdom Can Guide You Through Modern Boundary Issues, Inheritance, and Wills
Attorney Keisuke Ioku’s Visit to Temples and Shrines (2) Yakushiji Temple
Published on September 25, 2024
Temple Overview
Location: 457 Nishinokyocho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture
Founded by Emperor Tenmu, Yakushiji Temple is one of the three great ancient temples in Nara, along with Todaiji Temple and Horyuji Temple.
History and Architecture
Yakushiji Temple is the head temple of the Hosso sect of Buddhism. It was originally located in Asuka, but was moved to its current location in 718 when the capital was moved to Heijo. The temple complex was rebuilt one by one after the war, and the current temple complex was completed with the reconstruction of the Jiki Shokudo Hall in 2017.
The East Pagoda, the only remaining building from the temple’s original construction and designated a national treasure, appears to have six stories at first glance, but is actually three. Its rhythmic beauty is described as ”frozen music.”
Notable Features
Among the Buddhist statues, the most famous is the Yakushi Triad (with Yakushi Nyorai in the center, Nikko Bosatsu to the right, and Gakko Bosatsu to the left), which is also a national treasure and is enshrined in the Kondo Hall.