Yamadera
Located in the mountains northwest of Sendai in Yamagata Prefecture, the Yamadera temple, also known as the ‘mountain temple’, is a must-see destination for travellers wishing to explore the beauty and spirituality of Japan. Founded in 860 by a Buddhist monk named Ennin, the temple is considered one of the country’s oldest and most important sacred sites.
Yamadera owes its name to the location where it is situated, literally ‘mountain temple’. To reach the temple, visitors face a steep and winding staircase of over 1,000 steps. However, once at the top, they will be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and the valley below.
Koichi Shibata, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Another significant area of the temple is the Nokyodo, a library where the temple monks retire to study and meditate. Its walls are lined with portraits of famous monks from the past, creating an atmosphere of serenity and wisdom.
Yamadera also has a long history of inspiring famous artists and writers. The famous Japanese poet Matsuo Basho visited the temple during his journey on foot across Japan in the 17th century. Basho was so fascinated by the natural beauty and spirituality of Yamadera that he wrote a poem celebrating his experience. His poem perfectly captured the evocative atmosphere and spiritual depth surrounding the temple.
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KimonBerlin, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Besides its historical beauty, Yamadera is also an important place of religious practice. Every year, the temple hosts several religious events of sacred importance. During the New Year ceremony, thousands of visitors gather to pray for good luck and prosperity in the coming year. During the Obon festival, the return of the souls of the dead is celebrated, with processions and performances involving the local community.
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KimonBerlin, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
But Yamadera is not only a place of worship and spirituality, it is also an oasis of tranquillity and natural beauty. The surrounding forests offer scenic paths for relaxing hikes and walks. Along these paths, visitors can admire the diversity of the local flora and fauna while enjoying the refreshing energy of nature.
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lienyuan lee, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
For those who wish to explore the area further, Yamadera is close to other interesting attractions. A short distance away is Yamagata Castle, which offers an insight into the history of the region. The city of Yamagata, with its traditional culture and cultural events, is also easily accessible from Yamadera.
Crown of Lenten rose, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
How to get to Yamadera
From Tokyo or Ueno take the Shinkansen to Sendai (90 minutes – from 11410 Yen), from here take the local train on the JR Senzan Line towards Yamagata (1 hour – 860 Yen)
Alternatively take the Shinkansen from Tokyo or Ueno to Yagamata (2 hours 25 minutes – from 10640 Yen) and from there take the local train on the JR Senzan Line towards Sendai (20 minutes – 240 Yen)
The entrance to the temple is 5 minutes north of Yamadera Station
Practical information
Official website  |
|
| Yamadera Temple | |
| 8:00-17:00 | |
| No closing days | |
| 300 Yen | |
| Yamadera Treasure House | |
| 8:30-17:00 | |
| December to the end of April | |
| 200 Yen | |
| Basho Memorial Museum | |
| 9:00-16:30 | |
| 29 December to 3 January Some days during the year for maintenance |
|
| 400 Yen |