Yata-dera, Buddhist temple in Yamatokōriyama, Japan
Yata-dera is a Buddhist temple with buildings scattered across the eastern slope of Mount Yata. The main hall sits at the center, with various supporting structures and pathways connecting different sections of the grounds.
Emperor Temmu founded Yata-dera in 676 after praying for victory during the Jinshin War at Mount Yata. This founding made the temple one of the oldest Buddhist sites in Japan.
Visitors come to pay respects to the Jizo statue and seek blessings for children and safe passage. This devotion has deep roots in local spiritual life and continues to shape how people use the temple today.
The temple is best reached by public transport from Koriyama Station, with bus options available for part of the journey. Since the site sits on a hillside, comfortable walking shoes and time for climbing are recommended.
The temple grounds contain around 10,000 hydrangea plants in 60 different varieties that bloom between June and July. During these months, the hillside fills with blue, pink, and purple flowers in a striking seasonal display.
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