🗺️ Okadera (Ryugai-ji)

Okadera is an ancient temple said to have been built in the 2nd year of the Tenji era (663) under the holy decree of Emperor Tenji by the monk Gien. It is the oldest spiritual site in Japan for warding off disasters. The name "Okadera" comes from the local place name "Oka," while the official temple name is "Ryugai-ji." The name Ryugai-ji originates from a legend about a fierce dragon that troubled Asuka and caused great suffering for the farmers. Under the magical powers of Gien, the dragon was sealed in a pond and covered with a large stone to reform its ways. This legend surrounding the dragon has made Okadera a spiritual site for disaster relief, and this belief has been passed down through generations. Located within a vast area in the mountains, the most prominent feature is the main hall, which houses the statue of the principal deity, the Nyoirin Kannon Bodhisattva. This statue stands at 4.85 meters tall, making it the largest of its kind in Japan, alongside the bronze statue of the Great Buddha of Nara (Todai-ji) and the wooden statue of the Eleven-Headed Kannon at Hase-dera, all of which are among Japan's three great Buddhas. Additionally, Okadera is also known as the Temple of Flowers. Approximately three thousand rhododendrons are planted within its grounds. During the Golden Week each year, the pink flowers bloom beautifully, adorning the temple. Activities such as floating peonies in the pond and at the temizuya (water purification basin) are also held during this time. The autumn foliage is equally breathtaking.

Japan's oldest shrine for warding off evil spirits can bless you with disaster relief. You can pray with your hands together in front of the main deity, one of the three great Buddhas of Japan. The beautiful flowers and autumn leaves in the surrounding area are also worth seeing.