Complete Guide to Ryokaizan Yokoraji Temple (Gifu Prefecture) | The Charm of Mino’s Shosoin and Sokushinbutsu
Ryokaizan Yokoraji Temple (両界山横蔵寺), nestled deep in the Yagitsu valley of Yagitsu Town, Ibigawa County, Gifu Prefecture, is an ancient temple of the Tendai sect with over 1,200 years of history. Housing 22 nationally designated important cultural properties, this temple is known as the “Mino Shosoin” and possesses numerous precious Buddha statues, paintings, and books. It is also famous for housing the mummified remains of Myoshin Hoshi, who achieved sokushinbutsu (mummification through asceticism) approximately 200 years ago, conveying the depth of history and faith to the present day.
In autumn, it is selected as one of the Hida-Mino 33 Best Autumn Leaves Spots, where the contrast between the stately halls and vibrant foliage enchants visitors. This article comprehensively introduces information you should know before visiting, including the temple’s history, cultural properties, highlights, visitation information, and access methods.
History and Origins of Yokoraji Temple
Founding by Great Teacher Dengyou Saicho
Yokoraji Temple is said to have been founded by Great Teacher Dengyou Saicho in 803 (Enryaku 22). Saicho is known as the founder of the Tendai sect who established Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei and is one of the most important figures in Japanese Buddhist history. The temple’s beginnings are said to have come from enshrining a Medicine Buddha statue (Yakushi Nyorai) that Saicho carved himself as the principal image of worship.
The temple’s mountain name “Ryokaizan” derives from the two mandalas of the womb realm and diamond realm in esoteric Buddhism, reflecting the deep connection between Tendai Buddhism and esoteric Buddhism. Since its founding, Yokoraji Temple has played an important role as a training hall and the center of regional faith.
First Temple of the Seimi-Mino Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage Sites
Yokoraji Temple is also known as the first temple of the Seimi-Mino Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage Sites. This pilgrimage circuit is based on faith in the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, and involves visiting 33 temples in the Seino region starting from Yokoraji Temple, representing a traditional path of faith. Its designation as the first temple demonstrates that this temple has long been valued as the starting point for pilgrimage in the region.
Why It Is Called “Mino’s Shosoin”
Yokoraji Temple is called “Mino’s Shosoin” because it houses as many precious cultural properties as the Shosoin in Nara. Beginning with 22 nationally designated important cultural properties, numerous Buddha statues, paintings, ancient documents, and books are carefully preserved, making it a treasure house of Buddhist art from the Heian to Kamakura periods.
These cultural properties are highly valued not only for their artistic merit but also as precious historical materials transmitting to the present day the Buddhist culture, techniques, and beliefs of that era.
Important Cultural Properties and Collections
Principal Image: Medicine Buddha Statue
The Medicine Buddha statue, the principal image of Yokoraji Temple, is designated as a nationally important cultural property. Said to be the work of Great Teacher Dengyou Saicho himself, this Buddhist statue has long been revered as a buddha for healing illness and praying for good health. The Medicine Buddha is the teaching Buddha of the Eastern Pure Land of Lapis Lazuli and is known as a buddha who saves people from suffering and bestows peace.
The statue conveys the style of the early Heian period and is characterized by a serene expression and well-proportioned physique. The principal image, which has received the prayers of countless people throughout its long history, continues to watch over worshippers peacefully today.
22 Nationally Designated Important Cultural Properties
Yokoraji Temple houses 22 nationally designated important cultural properties, including the Medicine Buddha statue. It is rare for a temple to possess so many important cultural properties, and it receives high praise in both quantity and quality.
The main important cultural properties include:
- Dainichi Nyorai (Mahavairocana) Statue: A statue expressing Dainichi Nyorai, the supreme Buddha of esoteric Buddhism, showing precise carving techniques
- Eleven-Faced Avalokiteshvara Statue: A representative Buddha statue of Avalokiteshvara faith, characterized by a compassionate expression
- Four Heavenly Kings Statues: Statues of the Four Heavenly Kings who protect Buddhist law, making a striking impression with their powerful bearing
- Fudo Myoo (Acala) Statue: An important deity in esoteric Buddhism, expressing the wrathful face that crushes earthly desires
These Buddhist statues were created from the Heian through Kamakura periods and serve as valuable materials for understanding the characteristics of Buddha statue carving from each era.
Other Collections
Beyond important cultural properties, Yokoraji Temple houses numerous other precious cultural properties. Ancient paintings, books, sutras, Buddhist implements, and other items from the Heian through Muromachi periods are carefully preserved.
Most of these collections are not normally open to the public, though they may be displayed on special occasions. The cultural heritage that the temple has preserved and transmitted through its long history is indispensable material for understanding Japanese Buddhist culture.
The Sokushinbutsu (Mummy) of Myoshin Hoshi
History and Significance of Sokushinbutsu
One of the most notable cultural properties at Yokoraji Temple is the sokushinbutsu (mummy) of Myoshin Hoshi, enshrined in the Sharido Hall. This sokushinbutsu, said to have achieved sokushinbutsu approximately 200 years ago, is known as a precious legacy of sokushinbutsu faith in Japan.
Sokushinbutsu refers to the ultimate ascetic practice of seeking to become a Buddha while still alive. Over an extended period, practicing monks abstained from grains, eating only nuts and tree bark to reduce fat and water content in their bodies. Finally, they would enter a stone chamber underground and continue meditation in this state of sokushin (entering into a state of deepening meditation). The body of sokushinbutsu preserved without decay through this rigorous practice is called sokushinbutsu.
About Myoshin Hoshi
Myoshin Hoshi was a priest from the late Edo period who undertook rigorous training at Yokoraji Temple before achieving sokushinbutsu. According to tradition, the hoshi desired to save all sentient beings and sought to realize universal salvation by offering his body.
The sokushinbutsu of Myoshin Hoshi, still enshrined in the Sharido Hall, retains its appearance from that time even after more than 200 years, and its form moves all who see it deeply. The sokushinbutsu is not merely a corpse but an object of faith revered as the Buddha itself, with many worshippers coming to offer their prayers.
Notes on Viewing
The sokushinbutsu is an extremely precious cultural property and an object of faith, so viewing it requires approaching with reverence. Photography is prohibited inside the Sharido Hall, and quiet viewing is required.
Viewing of the sokushinbutsu is typically included in the regular admission fee, though during special services it may not be available. It is recommended to confirm this before your visit.
Yokoraji Temple as a Famous Autumn Leaves Spot
Hida-Mino 33 Best Autumn Leaves Spots
Yokoraji Temple, selected as one of the Hida-Mino 33 Best Autumn Leaves Spots, attracts particularly many tourists during autumn. The temple, positioned in the deep mountain area of Yagitsu, is surrounded by rich nature, and in autumn the entire grounds are painted with brilliant autumn foliage.
The peak season for autumn leaves is typically from the first to middle of November, and during this period the weekends are crowded with many worshippers and tourists. The contrast between the stately halls and the fiery autumn leaves is truly breathtaking.
Highlights During Autumn Leaves Season
While beautiful scenery can be found everywhere you walk at Yokoraji Temple, the following spots are especially recommended:
- Autumn Leaves Tunnel on the Approach Road: The approach from the parking lot to the main hall is covered with autumn foliage from both sides, forming a natural tunnel
- Around the Main Hall: Against the backdrop of the historic main hall, the colorful autumn foliage creates a beautiful contrast
- Near the Sharido Hall: The area around the Sharido Hall, wrapped in silence, is also painted with autumn leaves, creating a solemn atmosphere
- Temple Grounds Garden: In the well-maintained garden, Japanese maples and other trees display brilliant colors
Congestion During Autumn Leaves Season
The peak season for autumn leaves, particularly on weekends in mid-November, is extremely crowded. Parking lots often fill up, and traffic congestion may occur on surrounding roads. For those wishing to enjoy the autumn leaves at leisure, visiting on weekdays or participating in early morning worship is recommended.
Early morning offers clear air, and autumn foliage illuminated by the morning sun appears even more beautiful. Additionally, fewer people make it ideal for photography.
Natural Beauty in All Seasons
Spring Greenery
In spring, Yokoraji Temple is enveloped in fresh greenery, allowing you to feel the breath of nature awakening from winter’s silence. From April through May, the trees throughout the grounds burst into leaf all at once, creating a season easy on the eyes with vivid green.
During this season, there are relatively few worshippers, making it possible to enjoy worship and strolling in a quiet environment. Spring wildflowers can also be seen, making it a suitable season for nature observation.
Summer Deep Green
In summer, Yokoraji Temple is covered with deep green, and cool air flows through. Positioned at a higher elevation in a mountainous area, the temperature is lower than in urban areas, making it comfortable as a summer retreat.
Strolling through the grounds where cicada calls echo allows you to forget urban hustle and bustle and refresh both body and mind. Early morning and evening visits are especially recommended during summer.
Winter Silence
In winter, Yokoraji Temple is often covered with snow, enveloped in a sacred atmosphere of silence. The snow-covered halls display a fantastical beauty, allowing you to enjoy scenery unique to winter.
However, during winter, road conditions may worsen due to snow and ice, requiring careful attention when visiting. Installation of studded tires or carrying chains is recommended.
Visitation Information
Visitation Hours
Yokoraji Temple’s visitation hours are as follows:
- Normal Period: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Winter (December–February): 9:00 AM–4:00 PM
Final admission is 30 minutes before closing time. A visit plan with sufficient time is recommended.
Admission Fee
Admission fees are as follows:
- Adults: 300 yen
- Elementary and Junior High School Students: 100 yen
- Infants: Free
Group discounts (20 or more people) and handicapped discounts are also available. For details, please contact the temple directly.
Viewing of the sokushinbutsu in the Sharido Hall is included in the above admission fee.
Closed Days
Yokoraji Temple is generally open year-round, but may be closed to visitors during services or special events. Additionally, it may be temporarily closed in case of severe weather.
Particularly for those visiting from far away, it is recommended to confirm in advance by phone.
Access Methods
Location
Address: 1160 Yagitsu Kamihara, Ibigawa Town, Ibigawa County, Gifu Prefecture
Yokoraji Temple is located in the mountainous area of Ibigawa Town in western Gifu Prefecture. It is situated deep in the Yagitsu district, reached by proceeding from National Route 417 to Prefectural Route 267.
Access by Car
Car access is most convenient:
From Nagoya Area:
- Approximately 50 minutes from “Ogaki IC” on the Meishin Expressway
- Approximately 40 minutes from “Ono-Kambe IC” on the Tokai Ring Expressway
From Gifu Area:
- Approximately 60 minutes via National Route 21, National Route 417, and Prefectural Route 267
From Maibara Area:
- Approximately 40 minutes from “Sekigahara IC” on the Meishin Expressway
Prefectural Route 267 is a mountain road with sections of narrow width, requiring careful driving. Particularly during autumn foliage season, there is increased oncoming traffic.
Parking
Yokoraji Temple has a free parking lot:
- Capacity: Approximately 50 regular vehicles, several large buses
- Fee: Free
The parking lot often fills up on weekends during autumn foliage season, so early arrival is recommended. Temporary parking may be opened in such cases.
Access by Public Transportation
Public transportation access is limited:
Nearest Station: Yoro Railway “Ibi Station”
From Ibi Station, you will need to use route buses or taxis, but as service is extremely infrequent, it is recommended to confirm the timetable in advance or arrange a taxi reservation. A taxi from Ibi Station takes approximately 30 minutes, with costs around 5,000 yen one-way.
Temporary buses may operate during autumn foliage season, so it is recommended to check tourist information for Ibigawa Town beforehand.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Yagitsu Mountain Kegon-ji Temple
Located approximately 15 minutes by car from Yokoraji Temple, Yagitsu Mountain Kegon-ji Temple is a famous temple known as the 33rd temple of the Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage Sites. As the final temple of this pilgrimage circuit, it is visited by many pilgrims and is also famous as a spot for viewing cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. Visiting both temples together allows you to enrich a temple tour of the Seino region.
Ibigawa Town Tourism Plaza
A facility where you can obtain tourist information about Ibigawa Town, which also sells local specialties. Stopping by before or after visiting Yokoraji Temple allows you to gather information about nearby tourist attractions.
Yashagaike Pond
A mystical pond located on the border between Gifu and Fukui Prefectures, known for legends of rain-making prayers. Located approximately 2 hours’ walk along a mountain trail, it is popular as a nature-rich hiking course.
Ibigawa Gorge
A spot where you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the gorge formed by the Ibi River, particularly beautiful during the new leaf and autumn foliage seasons. It is also popular as a driving route.
Tips for Worship and Etiquette
Worship Protocol
When visiting a temple, observe the following basic protocols:
- Bow at the Mountain Gate: Bow before the gate before entering the grounds
- Purify at the Water Basin: Cleanse your hands and mouth before worship
- Worship at the Main Hall: Quietly join your hands in prayer and worship with sincerity
- Photography: Photography is prohibited inside halls. Be considerate of other worshippers when taking photographs in the grounds
Clothing and Belongings
- Clothing: Avoid exposed clothing and dress appropriately
- Footwear: The grounds have stone steps and slopes, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended
- Seasonal Preparation: Bring insect repellent in summer and warm clothing in winter
Goshuin (Temple Stamps)
You can receive a goshuin (temple stamp) at Yokoraji Temple. The goshuin as the first temple of the Seimi-Mino Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage is precious for those making the pilgrimage. Bring your goshuin book and request one from the temple office after worship.
Annual Events at Yokoraji Temple
Various services and events are held throughout the year at Yokoraji Temple:
Major Annual Events
- New Year’s Worship (January 1–3): Crowded with worshippers praying for healthy and safe new year
- Spring Equinox Memorial Service (March): Services to honor ancestors are held
- Medicine Buddha Memorial Day (August 8): Special services are held on the feast day of the principal image, Medicine Buddha
- Autumn Equinox Memorial Service (September): Ancestor memorial services are held as in spring
- Autumn Leaves Festival (November): Special events may be held in conjunction with the autumn foliage season
Details and dates of events may change from year to year, so it is recommended to confirm directly with the temple.
Maximizing Your Enjoyment of Yokoraji Temple’s Charm
Recommended Visiting Periods
While Yokoraji Temple has beauty in all seasons, particularly recommended times are:
- Autumn Leaves Season (early to mid-November): The most visited period, when the entire temple grounds are painted with autumn foliage
- Fresh Green Season (late April–May): A quiet period with few visitors, beautiful fresh greenery
- Early Summer (June): A refreshing season before the rainy season, with pleasant deep green
Recommended Time Allotment
Plan the following time for worship and sightseeing at Yokoraji Temple:
- Standard Worship: 30 minutes–1 hour
- Leisurely Sightseeing: 1–1.5 hours
- Including Photography: 1.5–2 hours
During autumn foliage season, expect additional time due to crowds.
Nearby Dining and Accommodation
There are few restaurants near Yokoraji Temple, so it is recommended to dine in the center of Ibigawa Town or in the Ogaki city area.
Accommodation:
- Yagitsu Hot Spring (approximately 15 minutes by car)
- Ibigawa Hot Spring (approximately 20 minutes by car)
- Hotels in Ogaki City (approximately 50 minutes by car)
Staying overnight to leisurely enjoy the surrounding sightseeing is also recommended.
Cultural Property Preservation Activities at Yokoraji Temple
As “Mino’s Shosoin,” Yokoraji Temple houses many precious cultural properties, and great effort is devoted to their preservation and management.
Preservation of Cultural Properties
Wooden Buddhist statues and ancient documents are sensitive to changes in humidity and temperature, requiring proper storage conditions. Yokoraji Temple regularly conducts inspections and restoration work with the cooperation of specialists.
Significance of Admission Fees
Admission fees serve not merely as entrance charges but are used for the preservation and restoration costs of these precious cultural properties and the maintenance and management of the temple grounds. By visiting, we indirectly contribute to cultural property preservation.
Conclusion: The Value of Visiting Yokoraji Temple
Ryokaizan Yokoraji Temple, an ancient temple with over 1,200 years of history, possesses diverse attractions including 22 nationally designated important cultural properties, the sokushinbutsu of Myoshin Hoshi, and natural beauty in all seasons.
As “Mino’s Shosoin,” this temple continues to protect precious cultural properties and is a valuable place for learning Japanese Buddhist culture and history, while simultaneously offering a place to calm the mind amid natural beauty and silence.
The beauty during autumn foliage season is especially extraordinary, with the contrast between the stately halls and brilliant foliage leaving a deep impression on visitors. However, each season—the fresh greenery of spring, the deep green of summer, and the silence of winter—has its own charm.
When visiting Gifu Prefecture, be sure to extend your journey to Yokoraji Temple to experience the beautiful world created by the harmony of history, culture, and nature. This ancient temple nestled deep in the mountains surely offers precious time to escape modern hustle and bustle and calm your spirit.
