“Healing Buddha’s Home” That’s a fitting nickname for Yakushiji. It is a serene temple in Osaka. Emperor Tenmu founded it in 680 CE. He wished for his wife’s recovery from illness.
Yakushiji Temple’s story is one of faith and resilience. The temple was initially built in Fujiwara-kyo. Later, it moved to Nara in 718 CE. Empress Jito, Tenmu’s wife, completed the temple after his death.
The temple became one of the Seven Great Temples of Nara. Yakushiji is the headquarters of the Hosso Buddhist sect. A Chinese monk, Ganjo Sanzo, founded it. It is the only one of ancient Japan’s six major sects still existing.
Yakushiji’s architecture is unique. It was the first temple with two pagodas. This Yakushi style features a symmetrical layout. The Main Hall is central. Two three-story pagodas flank it. They appear to have six stories because of extra roofs.
The East Pagoda is original. It dates back to the 8th century CE. It stands 33 meters tall. People consider it one of Japan’s finest pagodas. Each floor has a balustraded verandah. Its bronze spire rises 10 meters.
Inside the Main Hall sits the Yakushi Triad. These bronze figures date from 680-718 CE. The central figure is Yakushi Nyorai. He sits on a medicine chest instead of holding a bottle. The figures survived a fire in 1528 CE. They lost their gilding and appear black.
The art historian Ernest F. Fenollosa admired the Yakushi Triad. He said they are the finest standing bronze figures in the world. He believed their beauty alone was worth a trip to Japan.
The East Hall contains a bronze Sho-kannon. This is the bodhisattva of mercy. People believe it was a gift from Korea. It dates to the late 7th century CE. The statue stands with the four Shitenno guardians.
Yakushiji faced fires and challenges. A fire in 1528 CE destroyed many buildings. Reconstructions occurred in the 20th century CE. A large-scale restoration began in 1971 CE and continues.
Visiting Yakushiji is an experience. You can see Japanese Buddhist architecture and art. The East Pagoda stands tall. The Yakushi Triad embodies healing. Yakushiji embodies the enduring spirit of Japanese Buddhism. It offers a journey through time and faith.