🗺️ Tsubosaka-dera壷阪寺

Tsusaka-dera is an ancient temple built on Mount Tsusaka, with the famous cherry blossom viewing spot Yoshino Mountain to the south and a panoramic view of the Nara Basin, the homeland of Manyoshu, to the north. The temple is renowned as one of the scenic spots of Yamato and is mentioned in the Heian period works "The Pillow Book" (枕草子) and "Konjaku Monogatari" (今昔物語集). According to the temple's collection "The Old Legend of Nanpōkaji," the temple was founded by the monk Benki from Gangō-ji, who carved a statue of Kannon that had been enshrined in a hermitage on the mountainside in the 3rd year of the Daibō era (703) and dedicated it there. The principal deity enshrined is the Eleven-Headed Thousand-Armed Kannon statue, which is believed to be particularly effective in treating eye ailments and is deeply revered by the public. Based on the miraculous stories of Kannon, the play "Tsusaka Reigenki" was created, telling the love story of a blind husband and his devoted wife. In the early days, the temple complex had a large garan with 36 halls and over 60 sub-temples, but it was destroyed in a major fire. The three-story pagoda and the main hall are designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. Additionally, the grounds feature numerous stone sculptures of Buddha from India, which are a token of gratitude for the temple's humanitarian efforts in India. It is also a great place to enjoy a leisurely stroll while experiencing an exotic atmosphere.

Worship the Eleven-Headed Thousand-Hand Kannon statue, revered for its healing of eye ailments. The area is filled with numerous statues from India, creating an exotic atmosphere. During cherry blossom season, the stone statues, temples, and cherry blossoms intertwine to create a beautiful scene.