閼伽井嶽薬師, Buddhist temple on Mount Akai in Iwaki, Japan
Akagi-Yakushi is a Buddhist temple situated on Mount Akai in Iwaki, surrounded by ancient cedar and cypress trees that frame the temple grounds. The location offers expansive views over the city and surrounding landscape from elevated vantage points.
The temple traces its origins back approximately 1200 years within the Shingon Buddhist tradition, one of Japan's major schools. Over centuries it earned special designation as a mountain temple within this sect.
The summer fire ritual held on August 31 and September 1 brings local communities together as mountain priests walk barefoot across hot ashes in a ceremonial practice passed down through generations. This event remains central to how people connect with the temple today.
The temple is accessible by car in around 16 minutes from Iwaki Central Interchange, with parking available for both regular and large vehicles. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes as the location is on a mountain with uneven terrain.
The grounds contain the Dragon Lantern Cedar, a tree designated as a natural monument that serves as a symbol of local heritage. This ancient tree stands out as a quiet testament to the site's significance.
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