"A place I've always wanted to visit but couldn't, despite my love for Buddhist art" For me, Shojoji in Yukawa Village was exactly that kind of temple.
As I embarked on the venture of "Tabinoito," I finally made my long-cherished wish come true and visited, but to be honest, I got a little lost along the way (laughs).
Nestled quietly in a tranquil rural landscape is a small temple that at first glance appears to be just a village shrine. However, the moment I stepped inside the hall, I couldn't help but gasp. There, lined up, were the "National Treasure" statues of Buddha, exuding an overwhelming presence that could rival famous temples in the capital.
This time, I will guide you through the charm of "Katsunojiji," a treasure trove of Heian Buddhist art that is unparalleled in the Tohoku region, and the grand historical mysteries hidden within.
Twelve Heian Buddha statues gathered at the village temple
In the Yakushido of Katsunojiji (reconstructed during the Muromachi period; designated as an important cultural property) and the storage room, there are 12 Heian period Buddha statues, including the "Yakushi Nyorai seated statue," a national treasure, along with the "Nikkō and Gekkō Bosatsu statues" on either side. It is extremely rare to find so many ancient Buddha statues preserved in one place, having survived wars and fires.
Particularly captivating is the national treasure, the "Yakushi Nyorai seated statue," which sits in the center. Standing about 140 centimeters tall, this statue, carved from a single zelkova tree, has a thick chest and an impressive volume, radiating a solid strength. Yet, depending on the angle from which you view it, you can also sense a youthful vitality and tranquility, making it a fascinating piece.
Who left such magnificent Buddha statues here, and for what purpose?
[Historical Mystery] The barrier of the "Aizu Five Yakushi" to calm the anger of Mount Bandai
The key to solving this mystery lies once again with the genius monk, Tokuichi. (Please also check out the previous article on Eijitsu Temple.)
The grand scale of the "Aizu Five Yakushi" that calms the earth
According to legend, in the first year of Daido (806), Mount Bandai, the symbol of Aizu, erupted violently, causing tremendous damage to the region. Heartbroken by this, Tokuichi carved five Yakushi Nyorai statues to alleviate the suffering of the people and calm the anger of the earth.
These statues were then placed in the east, west, south, north, and center, surrounding Mount Bandai.
This is the grand scale barrier known as the "Aizu Five Yakushi." Katsunojiji was established as the "Central Yakushi" to seal this demon gate, making it one of the most important centers of Aizu Buddhism. Can you imagine how fervently the people of that time looked up to this Buddha with their heartfelt prayers?
The lineage of "monozukuri" in Aizu begins with the Buddha statues
Furthermore, when viewed from an "artistic and craft perspective," the group of Buddha statues at Katsunojiji reveals another interesting historical connection.
The Buddha statues of Katsunojiji, while made from "a single zelkova tree," also employed the "dry lacquer" technique (using lacquer and hemp cloth), and advanced joinery techniques that would later become mainstream were already in use, showcasing cutting-edge technology for that time. It is said that Tokuichi brought top-notch sculptors and craftsmen from the capital to build his ideal Buddhist world in this place.
The DNA of Traditional Crafts Nurtured by Prayer
In fact, it is said that this "advanced wood carving technique" and "lacquer technique" are the roots of the traditional crafts (such as Aizu lacquer) that Aizu proudly boasts today. The prayers of religion eventually sublimated into the "DNA of craftsmanship" rooted in the region. It's a very academic and exciting fact that connects the dots of history.
A Journey to Experience Overwhelming "Beauty" and "Prayer"
How was it? The overwhelming Buddhist art and the grand story of the barrier hidden in the tranquil village.
At Tabinoito, we offer a tour in the Academic Style that thoroughly explains the intricate artistic features of these Buddhist statues (such as the beauty of the folds in the robes and the depth of the carvings) and the connections to Aizu's history.
"I want to directly feel the aura emitted by real national treasures, not just through books and photos." "I want to understand the connection between Buddhist art and local culture on a deep level." If you have such intellectual curiosity, why not visit Katsukyoji with us? Please let us share the emotions waiting for you beyond the doors of the hall, after passing through the maze-like village paths.
A Journey to Touch Real National Treasures and the Depths of History.
The overwhelming aura of Buddhist art that cannot be conveyed through books or photos.
Experience the intellectual excitement of connecting the dots of history along with the explanations from our dedicated guide.
