薬王寺

Yakuoji Temple is a Buddhist temple in Togane with multiple structures including a main hall, Daishido hall, reception hall, and monastery kitchen set within the grounds. Traditional gates and Japanese architectural elements define the overall layout and appearance of the complex.

The temple was founded during the early Heian period and maintained a long connection with nearby Sugaojinja Shrine as a bettoji temple complex. This close relationship ended during the Meiji Restoration when institutional separation of Buddhist and Shinto elements was enforced.

The temple is dedicated to healing buddhas, particularly Bhaisajyaguru, the Buddha of Medicine, and visitors can encounter statues of protective figures that hold meaning in local devotion. These representations reflect the community's historical connection to health and spiritual care.

The temple is roughly fifteen minutes by car from Sanuki-Toyonaka Interchange and provides parking facilities on the grounds. Visitors can attend regular prayer services and explore the premises at their own pace.

The grounds feature numerous peony varieties that bloom starting in mid-April, which earned the temple its local nickname as the Peony Temple. The spring blossoms appear annually and draw visitors who want to experience this seasonal display.

Location: Togane

GPS coordinates: 35.61797,140.33089

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:43