Yata-dera

Yata-dera is a Buddhist temple on Teramachi Street in central Kyoto, tucked between modern buildings in an active shopping district. The temple features a small graveyard, traditional wooden structures, and several religious statues displayed in a simple style.

The temple was founded in the year 679 and is one of the oldest religious sites in Kyoto. Its name and origins are connected to a vow made following an important historical event.

The temple houses one of Japan's oldest statues, the Enmei Jizo Bosatsu, which in Buddhist tradition is worshipped as a protector of children and travelers. The statue draws visitors who come to ask for blessings for their loved ones.

The temple is easily reached via Teramachi Street near the Sanjo intersection, where shops and restaurants are abundant. The surroundings are quite busy, and the temple sits conveniently along footpaths in the midst of everyday city life.

The temple preserves the Daiukujizo, a statue representing a story of great sacrifice. This lesser-known figure demonstrates the Buddhist idea of salvation through selfless action.