Sagatakayama Kaikoji Temple (Shingon sect, Chizan school)

Overview

Sagatakayama Kaikoji Temple is a Shingon sect, Chizan school temple located in Sakata City, Yamagata Prefecture. It's known as a base for the Yudono-yama mountain worship of the Dewa Sanzan mountains. Legend says it was founded about 1200 years ago by Kukai (Kobo Daishi), giving it a long history and tradition. The temple grounds feature a main hall, bell tower, and storage building, and have a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. Particularly famous is its housing of two sokushinbutsu (mummified Buddhas), the only such pair in Japan. Sokushinbutsu are individuals who, through rigorous ascetic practices during their lifetime, achieved mummification without decomposition. Kaikoji Temple houses the sokushinbutsu of Chugyo Kojin (entered nirvana in 1755) and Enmyo Kojin (entered nirvana in 1822). They are said to have practiced austerities such as abstaining from five or ten grains and undergoing 1000-day practices. Seeing their preserved forms offers a rare opportunity, and the temple attracts many visitors. Kaikoji Temple also serves as a rest area for tourists, providing brochures for sightseeing in Sakata City. From the rest area, you can enjoy magnificent views of the expansive sand dunes and the Sea of Japan. Kaikoji Temple is a precious place where history, culture, and faith intertwine. Be sure to visit and experience its charm.