A Detailed History and Overview of Yakushiji Temple

 

　Table of Contents

1. Overview of Yakushiji Temple
   
2. History of Yakushiji Temple
   
3. Highlights of Yakushiji Temple
   

Introduction

Yakushiji Temple is located in the ancient capital of Nara and holds over 1,300 years of history as one of Japan's most important Buddhist temples. Renowned for its beautiful temple layout, buildings designated as National Treasures, and invaluable Buddhist art, Yakushiji has undergone numerous changes throughout its long history.

In this article, we will delve into the historical background of Yakushiji and highlight its key attractions to showcase the temple’s profound appeal.

1. Overview of Yakushiji Temple 

Yakushiji Temple is the head temple of the Hosso sect of Buddhism, located in Nishinokyo, Nara City, Nara Prefecture. It has played a significant role in the history of Japanese Buddhism. The temple’s founding dates back to 680 AD (the 9th year of Emperor Tenmu’s reign), when Emperor Tenmu vowed to build the temple to pray for the recovery of his consort, Empress Jito, from illness.

Initially, Yakushiji was constructed in Fujiwara-kyo during the Asuka period, but it was relocated to its current site in Nishinokyo, Nara, following the capital's move to Heijo-kyo in 710 AD. While many of the temple's buildings were destroyed by fire and war over the centuries, the East Pagoda (Toto) has survived in its original form, making it a valuable historical structure that is designated as a National Treasure.

The temple’s layout is symmetrical, with the East and West Pagodas standing side by side, a rare example of the twin-pagoda style in Japan. The East Pagoda, a three-story pagoda with an additional set of lower roofs (mokoshi) on each tier, creates the visual illusion of a six-story structure from a distance. The Yakushi Triad, housed in the temple, is considered one of the masterpieces of Japanese Buddhist art and is also designated as a National Treasure. In addition, the temple possesses many other National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties, contributing to its artistic value, which is highly regarded both in Japan and internationally.

In recent years, extensive restoration and reconstruction efforts have taken place. The West Pagoda was rebuilt in 1976, and the Great Lecture Hall (Daikodo) was restored in 2003, gradually recreating the original layout of the temple complex. Yakushiji continues to attract many visitors, both for its religious significance and as a site of international cultural exchange, through Buddhist ceremonies and cultural events.

In 1998, Yakushiji Temple was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara," recognizing its global historical and cultural significance.

2. History of Yakushiji Temple 

Yakushiji Temple was commissioned by Emperor Tenmu and has a long history, having experienced numerous significant events. Below is a summary of the key events in the temple’s history based on accurate information.

　1. Founding (680 AD)

The founding of Yakushiji Temple dates back to 680 AD, during the 9th year of Emperor Tenmu’s reign. Emperor Tenmu initiated the construction of the temple to pray for the recovery of his consort, Empress Jito, who had fallen ill. Initially, Yakushiji was located in "Yakushiji Fujiwarakyo" south of Fujiwara-kyo in the Asuka region, not at its current site. After Emperor Tenmu’s death, Empress Jito continued his wishes, and the temple was completed during the reign of their son, Emperor Monmu.

Yakushiji served as a central institution in state Buddhism at the time and played an important political and religious role. The temple’s original structure housed the Yakushi Triad, with Yakushi Nyorai as the principal deity. The temple was devoted to prayers for healing, with a widespread belief in the protection of Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddha of medicine. The Yakushi Triad was later relocated to the current Yakushiji site after the capital moved to Heijo-kyo.

　2. Relocation with the Move to Heijo-kyo (710 AD)

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In 710 AD, Yakushiji was relocated to its current site in Nishinokyo, Nara, along with the move of the capital to Heijo-kyo. This relocation marked both a political and cultural shift from Fujiwara-kyo to Heijo-kyo, positioning Yakushiji as a key temple in the new capital. The original Yakushiji complex in Fujiwara-kyo was rebuilt in Heijo-kyo, and the current Yakushiji inherits this legacy.

After the relocation, Yakushiji adopted the twin-pagoda layout, with the East and West Pagodas symmetrically flanking the Main Hall. This symmetrical layout, with the Yakushi Triad enshrined in the Main Hall, is a rare architectural style in Japanese Buddhism. The balance and beauty of the temple complex, with its twin pagodas, had a profound influence on the development of Japanese temple architecture.

　3. Losses from Fires and Wars (Heian to Muromachi Periods)

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Yakushiji suffered numerous losses due to fires and wars between the Heian and Muromachi periods. One of the most devastating events occurred in 1180, during the "Burning of Nara" (Nanto Shobo), when the Taira clan’s forces attacked Nara. Major temples such as Todai-ji and Kofuku-ji were heavily damaged, and Yakushiji was also destroyed. Most of the buildings were lost, but the East Pagoda miraculously survived.

The East Pagoda, with its unique structure featuring multiple lower roofs (mokoshi), creates the visual effect of a six-story pagoda, even though it has three stories. Known as the "Frozen Music," the East Pagoda is considered a precious architectural relic and is designated a National Treasure. Despite the turbulent times of the Muromachi period, the East Pagoda endured due to its sturdy construction and fortunate preservation.

　4. Reconstruction of the West Pagoda (1981)

The West Pagoda, which had been lost to fire and war over the centuries, was reconstructed between 1976 and 1981. Using detailed historical records and archaeological research, skilled craftsmen meticulously rebuilt the pagoda to reflect the ancient construction techniques of the time.

The West Pagoda was restored as a three-story pagoda, identical to the East Pagoda, reviving Yakushiji's characteristic symmetrical twin-pagoda layout. This reconstruction project was a significant effort in Japanese architectural history, preserving and passing on ancient building techniques and cultural heritage to modern generations.

　5. Reconstruction of the Great Lecture Hall (2003)

※Image is for illustration purposes

Yakushiji’s Great Lecture Hall (Daikodo) was reconstructed in 2003. Located at the center of the temple complex, the new hall was rebuilt on the original site using historical documents and archaeological findings to replicate the ancient design as faithfully as possible.

With this reconstruction, the layout of Yakushiji was further restored to its original form. The Great Lecture Hall now serves as an important venue for Buddhist ceremonies and cultural exchanges, fulfilling both religious and cultural roles in the temple’s ongoing activities.

In 1998, Yakushiji Temple was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara," acknowledging its global historical and cultural significance.

　6. Recent Preservation and Restoration Efforts (21st Century)

In the 21st century, Yakushiji continues its preservation and restoration efforts, particularly focusing on the East Pagoda. Between 2012 and 2020, the East Pagoda underwent a major 10-year restoration project, ensuring the preservation of its ancient beauty for future generations. These efforts reflect the ongoing importance of Yakushiji as a cultural heritage site, and the temple remains dedicated to its conservation for future generations.

3. Highlights of Yakushiji Temple 

Yakushiji Temple has played a significant role in Japan's Buddhist and architectural history, offering many fascinating sites to explore. Below are the must-see spots when visiting Yakushiji.

　■ East Pagoda (National Treasure)

The East Pagoda, a symbol of Yakushiji, is the only remaining structure from the temple’s original construction and is designated as a National Treasure. Standing about 34 meters tall, this three-story pagoda features decorative roofs called "mokoshi" on each tier, giving it the unique appearance of a six-story structure from a distance.

This design is often referred to as "frozen music" for its beauty and is regarded as a masterpiece of Japanese architecture. Having survived the fires of the Kamakura period, it remains in its original form and is a must-see for all visitors to Yakushiji.

　■ West Pagoda

Reconstructed in 1981, the West Pagoda mirrors the East Pagoda with its three-story structure. Using advanced techniques of the time, this pagoda was faithfully rebuilt to match its original form, enhancing the beauty of Yakushiji’s symmetrical layout.

The twin-pagoda layout is rare in Japan, and the sight of the East and West Pagodas standing side by side symbolizes the grandeur of Yakushiji. In the evening, the West Pagoda glows beautifully in the setting sun, captivating visitors.

　■ Main Hall (Kondo)

The Main Hall, located at the center of Yakushiji, houses the Yakushi Triad, a statue of Yakushi Nyorai flanked by Nikko Bosatsu and Gakko Bosatsu. This triad is considered one of the greatest masterpieces of Japanese Buddhist art.

The central statue of Yakushi Nyorai was reconstructed in the Kamakura period, and its intricate carving and detailed craftsmanship are awe-inspiring. The solemn and serene atmosphere inside the hall allows visitors to deeply connect with the spirit of Buddhism.

　■ Great Lecture Hall (Daikodo)

Restored in 2003, the Great Lecture Hall sits at the heart of Yakushiji’s temple layout and faithfully replicates the original structure. The hall is used as a place for studying Buddhist teachings and hosts large-scale Buddhist events and cultural exchanges.

Inside, there are exhibits on the history of Yakushiji and Buddhist teachings, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of Buddhist culture. A stroll around the hall offers a comprehensive view of the temple's overall layout.

　■ Genjo-sanzoin Garan

Genjo-sanzoin Garan was built in honor of the Chinese monk Xuanzang (Genjo-sanzoin in Japanese), who is known for bringing Buddhist scriptures from India to China and spreading Buddhist teachings. The main hall enshrines a statue of Xuanzang, and there are exhibits celebrating his achievements.

The "Xuanzang Statue" and the "Hakuhou Stone Statue" are among the rare and historically significant items on display, offering visitors another glimpse into Yakushiji's rich cultural heritage.

　■ Gardens and Scenery of Nishinokyo

The beautiful gardens surrounding Yakushiji are another highlight for visitors. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom in full, and in autumn, the temple is adorned with stunning fall foliage. A walk through the gardens allows visitors to enjoy the harmony between nature and Yakushiji’s architecture throughout the changing seasons.

Walking around the temple also offers a view of the Nishinokyo area, where the traditional scenery of ancient Nara still lingers, giving visitors a sense of the old capital’s charm.

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 In Conclusion 

Yakushiji Temple is a significant symbol of Japanese Buddhist culture with a rich history that has endured through the centuries. Despite the many fires and wars it has faced since its founding, the temple continues to stand strong today. The East Pagoda, a National Treasure, and the Yakushi Triad statues are not only of immense historical value but are also visually captivating. Visitors can also enjoy the temple’s breathtaking scenery, which changes beautifully with each season.

If you want to experience the essence of Japanese Buddhism and culture, we highly recommend visiting Yakushiji Temple to experience its timeless charm.