Horaku-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple of the Shingon sect's Chizan school located in Ootoyo-cho, Nagaoka-gun, Kochi Prefecture. Its mountain name is Ootayama, and its principal deity is Yakushi Nyorai (the Healing Buddha). Also known as Shibaori Yakushi, it's considered one of Japan's three great Yakushi temples. Its Yakushi-do hall is designated as a National Treasure.
Horaku-ji's Yakushi-do hall vividly retains the architectural style of the early Kamakura period, and is known as the oldest existing building in Shikoku. It's a single-story, irimoya-zukuri (hipped and gabled roof) structure with a kakigaki (bark tile) roof, measuring five bays across the front and five bays along the side, exhibiting a generally simple design. Inside, along with the Yakushi Nyorai statue, several other Buddhist statues from the Kamakura period are enshrined.
An inscription inside the Yakushi Nyorai statue bears the date of 1151 (Ninpei 1), along with the mention of the construction of a 'five-bay, four-sided Yakushi-do hall'. This is thought to indicate the building's construction date. Architectural historian Hirotaro Ota suggests, based on the inner sanctuary (hojo) being located towards the rear, not the center of the building, and the misalignment of the inner sanctuary pillars and outer pillars, that the building's construction dates no earlier than the early Kamakura period, not the Heian period. In any case, it represents one of the oldest extant buildings in Shikoku.
The Yakushi-do hall is surrounded by a tranquil grove of moss-covered cedar trees, creating a serene atmosphere. It's a perfect place for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing experience.
Horaku-ji Temple offers not only a glimpse into history and culture but also a haven of natural beauty. Consider taking some time to relax and rejuvenate yourself while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
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