月輪寺

Gachirinji Temple is a Buddhist temple featuring a wooden Yakushido Hall that displays traditional Japanese religious architecture and houses sacred Buddha statues. The principal image is Yakushi Nyorai, the medicine Buddha figure in the main worship space.

The Yakushido Hall was built in 1189 with support from Buddhist priest Chogen and remains the oldest wooden structure in Yamagata Prefecture. This building has survived for centuries as a testament to early Japanese religious architecture.

The temple reflects a long tradition of seeking the medicine Buddha's blessing for health and healing, a practice that continues to draw visitors today. This spiritual purpose shapes how the site is used and experienced by those who come here.

The temple sits in a quiet area close to local hot springs and is easily reached from central Yamagata. Visitors can find clear maps at the site that help with navigation around the grounds.

An original stone water basin from 1772 still stands on the grounds and continues to serve its ceremonial function today. This artifact shows how elements of the temple have remained in daily use across generations.