Yakushō-ji, Buddhist temple in Minamiuonuma, Japan.
Yakushō-ji is a Buddhist temple in rural Minamiuonuma featuring two distinct pagodas that display traditional Japanese architecture. The grounds contain several buildings for ceremonies and worship, including halls that house sacred artworks and sculptures.
The temple was founded approximately 1,300 years ago when an imperial ruler commissioned healing prayers for a family member. Over centuries, the site expanded and became significant in the region's religious life.
The temple is dedicated to Yakushi, the Buddha of healing, and visitors can sense the spiritual atmosphere in its prayer spaces. The halls show how people have practiced their faith here across many generations.
The temple is located in a rural area and is easiest to reach by car, though local buses also serve the area. Visitors should check opening hours in advance as they may vary by season.
An ancient tree grows on the temple grounds and attracts visitors with its impressive spread of wide branches. The tree is among the oldest and largest of its kind in the region and draws many photographers.
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