The Yakushi Triad is a common sculptural depiction of the Buddha, Yakushi Nyorai, as the central figure accompanied by his attendants, Nikko Bosatsu and Gakko Bosatsu, on his right and left respectively. Yakushi Nyorai is said to ward off any and all forms of disease, and he is distinguished by his signature medicine jar in his left hand.
This particular triad once belonged to Dainichiji temple, one of four temples located at the historically revered Mount Yudono. It was relocated in an effort to evade destruction from the anti-Buddhist movement (haibutsu kishaku) in the Meiji period. The triad will be available for public viewing for the first time in over a hundred years from June to September 2023!
Stop by, make a prayer, and maybe take a dip in the nearby hot springs at Onogawa Onsen too!
Viewing Period
1st June 2023 (Thursday) ~ 30th September 2023 (Saturday)
Visiting Hours: 9:00 am ~ 4:00 pm
* Please approach the reception counter if you wish to view the Yakushi Triad
Location
Kinoene Daikokuten Honzan Hojuji Temple
2580 Onogawa-machi, Yonezawa-shi, Yamagata
Fees
Individuals – 300 yen
Groups (15 pax and above) – 200 yen
Free entry for children of middle school age and below
Goshuin Information
Goshuin are stamps that were traditionally handwritten by the shrine or temple monks for the visitor as proof of their visit.
A limited edition goshuin drawn using gold ink will be distributed during this period. It also provides the visitor with blessings of longevity and good health.
Special Night Viewing – Benevolence Bathed in Lights
Stop by at night on the following weekends for a wholly illuminated view of the sculptures!
Viewing Days (Weekends)
15 and 16 July, 29 and 30 July, 5 and 6 August, 19 and 20 August, 2 and 3 September, 16 and 17 September, 30 September
Visiting hours: 7:00 pm ~ 9:00 pm
Fees
Individuals – 500 yen
Groups (15 pax and above) – 300 yen
Free entry for children of middle school age and below
Goshuin Information
A limited edition goshuin drawn using silver ink will be distributed only on night viewing days. Like the gold version, it provides the visitor with blessings of longevity and good health.
Contact
Kinoene Daikokuten Honzan Hojuji temple
〒992-0076
2580 Onogawa-machi, Yonezawa-shi, Yamagata
TEL: 0238-32-2929 (Japanese)
Check out the webpage (Japanese) for more information.
