Here stands Yakushido Hall, a testament to healing and faith. This hall is not just a building. It is a sanctuary dedicated to Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddha of Healing and Medicine.
Yakushido Hall is more than just a spiritual center. It is a place where the past intertwines with the present. The hall’s history is rich with tales of devotion. It is a beacon of hope for those seeking solace.
Legend says that this sacred space has been revered by islanders for generations. Yakushido Hall stands near the boundary between Motomachi and Nojima areas. The hall is surrounded by giant sudajii and isunomaki trees.
Within Yakushido Hall, the principal image of worship is the Yakushi Nyorai statue. Alongside it resides a Binzuru statue. The statue is also known as “Obinzuru-sama”. People call it that because of the belief in its efficacy.
Yakushi Nyorai offers salvation from people’s suffering. Obinzuru-sama offers a cure, especially for eye diseases. Locals gather on January 8th. They pray for the recovery of eye ailments.
In 1957, more than 30 wooden Buddhist statues were discovered inside Yakushido Hall. Among them were notable figures. They included a statue of Kannon Bosatsu. There was also a statue of Jizo Bosatsu. There were also statues of Godai Myoo and the Four Heavenly Kings. Seven of these statues are from the late Heian period. They are designated as tangible cultural properties by Tokyo.
Also discovered at the same time was a wooden plaque. It is known as “Tenbun Kouichi Nen Shu Yakushi Kuyoho Mokkan”. This plaque is also a designated tangible cultural property of Tokyo.
The plaque dates back to 1552. It recounts a story of a great fire. A monk named Shamon from Shimoda came to the island. He performed a ritual. He recited the Heart Sutra ten thousand times. He transcribed the Lotus Sutra. His prayers quelled the raging fire.
This wooden plaque is the oldest surviving written record on Oshima Island. Today the wooden statues and plaque are on display. They are housed in the Oshima Town Local Museum.
Yakushido Hall is an area steeped in history. It is adorned with cultural treasures. It continues to be a place of reverence. It reminds all of the enduring power of faith and healing.