Kuroishiji Temple

Overview

Kuroishiji Temple is said to have been founded in 729 (the first year of the Tenpyō era) by Gyōki, making it the first temple in the Tohoku region. Gyōki was a monk active during the Nara period, known for building numerous temples and bridges and devoting himself to the relief of the common people. Because it was the first temple Gyōki established in Tohoku, Kuroishiji Temple is considered to have played an important role in the spread of Buddhism in the region. Later, the temple was burned down during the Ezo subjugation in the Enryaku period (782-806). The Ezo subjugation was a series of battles fought by Sakanoe Tamuramaro against the Ezo (Ainu) people. This conflict played a significant role in establishing Japanese rule over the Tohoku region. The destruction of Kuroishiji Temple speaks to the intensity of these battles. It was subsequently rebuilt in 807 (the second year of the Daidō era) by Sakanoe Tamuramaro, a figure known for his achievements in subduing the Ezo and for his significant contributions to the development of the Tohoku region. The temple's reconstruction reflects Tamuramaro's commitment to the region's recovery. In 849 (the second year of the Kashō era), Ennin (Jikaku Daishi) revitalized the temple. Ennin, a Tendai Buddhist monk, built many temples and made significant contributions to the development of Buddhist culture in Japan. Ennin donated many Buddhist statues and scriptures to Kuroishiji Temple, greatly contributing to its prosperity. Kuroishiji Temple was once a Shugendo (mountain ascetic) temple and served as the betto (a temple affiliated with a shrine) of Ishite-zeki Shrine, a jinja (Shinto shrine) that was the guardian shrine of Idaten Castle. At its height, it is said to have had 48 buildings. Shugendo is a religion that blends mountain worship and Buddhism. Kuroishiji Temple is believed to have once been an important center for mountain worship and Buddhism. The current main hall and storehouse were rebuilt in 1884 (the 17th year of the Meiji era). The Meiji period was a time of rapid modernization in Japan. The reconstruction of Kuroishiji Temple reflects the changes of this era. Kuroishiji Temple is a temple where you can feel the history and tradition. It houses many valuable cultural properties, including the wooden seated Yakushi Nyorai statue, designated as a National Treasure. The Kuroishiji Suminsai Festival, held every July, attracts many visitors. Why not visit Kuroishiji Temple and experience Japanese history and culture?