Table of Contents
Introduction
Hello, everyone!
I’m JiJi, a travel blogger.
I went to Yamadera, which is a famous temple in Yamagata Prefecture.
It was great because I’ve never seen such a beautiful view of snow in my life!
So, I will share with you my great memory and the view that I have seen!
About Yamadera
Yamadera means “Mountain-Temple”.
As the name shows, the temple stands on top of a mountain.
Officially, this temple is called Risshakuji Temple.
I went there on March 4.
Snow fell the day before, which made the mountain temple a very magical sight.
I was so lucky!!
Benefits of Yamadera Temple (Risshakuji)
Next, I will tell you the benefits of this temple!
It is said that there is a blessing to cut off bad things, bad people and diseases at Yamadera Temple (Risshakuji).
Yamadera Temple (Risshakuji) is so famous for its blessings to break off bad relationships that locals say that couples are not allowed to visit the temple.
Features and Attractions
- 1015 Steps to the top
- Breathtaking view from the top
- Where Matsuo Basho, haiku master, visited
- Other places to see
1015 Steps to the top
This temple is located in a steep mountainous area, and you have to climb 1015 stone steps to reach it!
The hard work of climbing these stone steps is said to mean “cutting off the mundane world”.
The round trip took me an hour and a half.
I was a little tired, but the scenery along the way was literally breathtaking.
I felt like I was in a movie!
Breathtaking view from the top
Once you finish climbing the 1015 steps, you will be greeted by a spectacular view.
There are several temples at the top to visit as well.
Here is a view from the top temples.
Where Matsuo Basho, haiku master, visited
This temple is also famous for having been visited by haiku master, Matsuo Basho (1644-1694) in 1689.
It is said that “300 years ago, he returned from Obanazawa (Yamagata Prefecture) after being advised by people that he should see a view from Yamadera (Risshakuji Temple) at least once”.
This is a stone statue of Matsuo Basho.
Other places to see
Midahora
It is said that long years of rain and wind have chipped away at the rocks, creating the form of Amida Nyorai(God of Buddhism).
Nio Gate
On either side of the Nio gate stand Niomon statues said to have been carved by a disciple of Unkei(Famous buddhist image maker).
They are said to be glaring at people with evil intentions, forbidding them to climb up.
Hours and fee
It took me an hour and a half to go back and forth.
Generally speaking, the round trip takes 1.5 to 2 hours.
And the entrance fee for Yamadera Temple is as follows.
- Adults: 300 yen
- High school students: 300 yen
- Junior high school students: 200 yen
- Elementary school students: 100 yen
- Infants (4 years old and up): 100 yen
Tips to enjoy Yamadera
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes
When I went up, the ground was frozen and slippery.
Even if it is not icy, you will sweat when going up in the summer, so comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended.
Eat Chikara konnyaku
Chikara konnyaku, a local delicacy of Yamadera, stewed in soy sauce broth, is very popular.
It can be purchased at souvenir stores in the area for about 100 yen.
More information
| Yamadera Temple (Risshakuji) | |
|---|---|
| Address: | 4456-1 Yamadera, Yamagata, 999-3301 |
| Tel: | 023-695-2002 |
| HP: | risshakuji.jp |
| Opening hours: | April-September 8:00-16:00 December-March 8:00-15:00 (gate closes at 4pm) |
| Note: | – |
Google Map
Concusion
Now, for me, Yamadera is a place where I could feel nature and history.
If you are planning a trip to Yamagata Prefecture or the Tohoku region, I would definitely recommend this place!
Have a nice trip!
