Oyamadera Temple

Overview

Oyamadera Temple is a temple of the Shingon sect's Daikakuji branch located in Isehara City, Kanagawa Prefecture. Its mountain name is Uburisan (Amefurisan), and its principal deity is Fudō Myōō. It has been a center of faith for many centuries as one of the Kantō's Three Great Fudo Myōō temples. Its founding is said to date back to 755, established by Rōben, the first head priest of Tōdai-ji Temple. The temple grounds preserve many valuable cultural assets, including the nationally important cultural property, the iron Fudō Myōō and two attendant deity statues. Oyamadera Temple has historical records showing that during the Kamakura period, Minamoto no Yoritomo offered sacred horses to temples and shrines in Sagami Province, including Oyamadera Temple, to pray for the safe delivery of his wife, Hōjō Masako's child. In the Edo period, pilgrimages to Oyama became popular, leading to the establishment of "Oyama Kō" (Oyama societies) throughout the Kantō region and the development of the "Oyama-michi" (Oyama pilgrimage routes). These pilgrimages were not only a popular expression of faith among commoners, but even the shōguns and daimyo of the Edo shogunate participated. Oyamadera Temple thus played a central role in the religious life of the time. Oyamadera Temple offers a tranquil setting surrounded by majestic nature, ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation. The temple grounds include the main hall, bustling with worshippers, and the serene Amida Hall, among other attractions. The beautiful scenery also changes with the seasons: spring’s cherry blossoms, summer's vibrant greenery, autumn's fiery foliage, and the winter snowscape. Oyamadera Temple is a wonderful place where history and nature blend harmoniously. We highly recommend a visit.