Yamadera (山寺), officially known as Risshaku-ji (立石寺), is a famous temple located in Yamagata Prefecture, Japan. The temple is perched on a mountain, requiring visitors to ascend a steep stone staircase to reach the temple grounds.
Yamadera has a long history, dating back to the 9th century when it was founded by the renowned monk Ennin. While the temple has been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries, some structures like Konponchudo Hall have survived since the late Heian period. Most of the current buildings date back to the early 1700s.
One of the main attractions of Yamadera is the breathtaking view from the top of the mountain, offering a panoramic vista of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, which feature several notable buildings, including the Niomon Gate, the Godaido Hall, a five-story pagoda, and a main hall with a large statue of the Buddha.
In addition to its natural beauty and historical significance, Yamadera is also known for its literary connections. The poet Matsuo Basho visited the temple in the late 1600s and composed a famous haiku about the sound of a temple bell resonating in the tranquility of the mountains.
Yamadera is a popular tourist destination throughout the year, attracting visitors with its fresh greenery in spring and summer, stunning autumn foliage, and magical snow-covered scenery in winter.
Details
| Hours | April to September / 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM December to March / 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
| Admission | Adults: 300 yen Junior high school students: 200 yen Children: 100 yen |
| Phone | +81 23-695-2843 |
| Address | 4456-1 Yamadera, Yamagata, 999-3301 |
| Official Website | https://rissyakuji.jp/ |