Matsuo-ji Temple

Overview

Matsuo-ji Temple is a Koya-san Shingon sect temple located in the foothills of Azumino, Nagano Prefecture. Its mountain name is Iōzan, and its temple name is Jōrakuin. The principal deity is Yakushi Nyorai. According to the Shinfu Tōki, it was revived in 1528 by Ninaka Morimasa, although there's also a theory suggesting it was a branch of the Furumaya clan. The Nagano Prefecture History suggests that Morimasa constructed the Yakushi-dō (Yakushi Nyorai hall), which houses the principal image, while the temple's founding dates back to 651 AD (Hakuhō 2). It was formerly a branch temple of Tōdai-ji's Sanbōin, later changing to its current sect. It is said to appear in Jipponsha Ikku's Edo period work, "Zoku Hizakurige." During the Meiji period, it suffered decline due to the haibutsu kishaku movement (the suppression of Buddhism), leaving only the Nio-dō (hall of the two guardian kings) and the main hall (Yakushi-dō, Important Cultural Property). The main hall, designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, was built in the late Muromachi period and features a gabled roof with copper tiles. Its architectural style is similar to that of the Kanon-dō hall at Shōren-ji Temple in Ōmachi City, Nagano Prefecture. The temple's quiet and serene atmosphere offers peace of mind. Matsuo-ji Temple is surrounded by the beautiful nature of Azumino, Nagano. The surrounding area includes Matsuo-jiyama Park and the Azumino City Hotaka Local History Museum, providing opportunities for pleasant strolls. Why not visit Matsuo-ji Temple and experience its history and natural beauty?