Risshakuji Temple
Jikakudaishi Ennin, the third leader of the Tendaishu, founded this ancient temple, properly named Hojusan Risshakuji, in 860. People have long worshipped at this temple, which they regard as one of the most renowned sacred places in Tohoku. Climb the more than 1,000 stone steps from the entrance of the mountain up to the Okunoin building, where you can see big stones in interesting shapes and enjoy the spectacular views stretching way down below which change with the season.
Yamadera is the name of an area centered on Risshakuji Temple. In 1950, Yamadera was designated as a historic site with national outstanding scenic beauty.
Flame taken from the torch that Denkyodaishi Saicho brought to Hieizan Enryakuji Temple from China about 1,000 years ago still burns in Risshakuji Temple. When Enryakuji Temple was reconstructed after burning to the ground, light was taken from the light kept in Risshakuji Temple to be returned to Enryakuji Temple. This light is still kept burning at Konponchudo, the main building of Risshakuji.
Konponchudo Building
A wooden seated statue of Yakushi Nyorai (a saint who attained Buddhahood) said to have been made by Jikakudaishi Ennin is housed in this main building of Risshakuji Temple. Konponchudo is said to be the oldest building made of beech in Japan, and is an important national cultural property.
Niomon Gate
Godaido
Images of Godai Myo'o, the protectors of Mt. Hojusan, are enshrined in this seminary building to pray for peace. The view from the platform, that was reconstructed in 1714, is so magnificent that it is said to be the best in Yamadera.
Poet, Basho Matsuo
The master poet, Basho Matsuo, visited Yamadera with his pupil, Sora, on 13 July 1689. Basho penned a famous poem about Yamadera which is included in his celebrated travelogue, Okunohosomichi.
Semizuka Monument
This monument, named Semizuka, was constructed when seven poets including Kochu buried some of Basho's poems written on tanzaku here in 1748, fifty-five years after Basho's death.
Yamadera Senjuin Temple
This temple enshrines a statue of Senju Kanzeonbosatsu (the Goddess of Mercy) thought to have been made by Jikakudaishi. This is the location of the second paper amulet of Mogami's 33 Kannon statues. Be sure not to miss the entrance arch called "tsuiteru torii", because it is said that if you give it a hug, your wish will come true.
Tendainomichi Walk
This walk covers many historical spots in an abundance of nature. You can see ruins related to Jikakudaishi, the Minenoura ruins with famous rocks called the Jogan-nanaiwa, where views over the whole of Yamadera can be seen, and a strange rock called Baguchiiwa.
Taimenseki Stone
When Jikakudaishi first came to Yamadera, it was at this stone that he met Banji Bansaburo, the then ruler of Yamadera. Jikakudaishi persuaded him to stop hunting animals and do good deeds. Bansaburo also allowed Jikakudaishi to use Yamadera.
Sanno Festival
This is the festival of Hie Jinja Shrine which is dedicated to the guardian god of Mt. Hojusan. Participants run around the temple town carrying the shrine's three sacred palanquins, wishing for a good harvest and easy births. It is said that if rain drops onto the sacred palanquins, there will be a bountiful harvest.
Nightlong vigil of Buddhist prayer
This traditional vigil is an annual event. Prayers begin in the evening of August 6th and continue until the morning of the following day. Participants walk from the Konponchudo of Risshakuji Temple towards Okunoin while chanting prayer through the night. This vigil has been performed for 500 years and has been designated as an intangible folk cultural asset of the city of Yamagata.
Banji Festival
Banji Bansaburo, an avid hunter, was persuaded to stop killing animals by Jikakudaishi. During this festival, participants perform shishiodori, to symbolize animals dancing with joy that they will no longer be hunted.
Omoshiroyama Momijigawa Keikoku
Walk along Momijigawa River in Omoshiroyama Kogen. You can see seven waterfalls of various sizes and strangely shaped rocks, and enjoy flowing streams and the feel of the breeze. Popular for barbecues in the summer and imonikai (taro soup picnics) in the autumn
