"A place I love Buddhist art but have never been able to visit" For me, Shojoji in Yukawa Village was exactly that kind of temple.
As I launched the business of "Tabinoito," I finally made my long-held wish come true and visited, but to be honest, I got a little lost on the way (laughs).
Nestled quietly in a tranquil rural landscape, it appears to be a small village temple at first glance. However, the moment I stepped inside that hall, I gasped. There, lined up were the "National Treasure" statues of Buddha, radiating an overwhelming presence that rivals even the famous temples of 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 (rebuilt in the Muromachi period; designated as an important cultural property) and the storage room, there are twelve Heian period Buddha statues, including the "Yakushi Nyorai seated statue," which is a national treasure, along with the "Nikkō and Gekkō Bosatsu statues" on either side. It is extremely rare for such a large number of ancient Buddha statues to remain in one place, having survived wars and fires.
Particularly captivating is the national treasure, the "Yakushi Nyorai seated statue," which sits in the center. Approximately 140 cm tall, carved from a single zelkova tree, its figure has a thick chest and an impressive volume, exuding a solid strength. Yet, depending on the angle from which you view it, you can also sense a youthful and gentle charm, making it a fascinating presence.
Who left such magnificent Buddha statues here, and for what purpose?
[Historical Mystery] The boundary of the "Aizu Five Yakushi" that calms the anger of Mount Bandai
The key to solving this mystery lies again with the genius monk, Tokuitsu. (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. Grieved by this, Tokuitsu carved five Yakushi Nyorai statues to alleviate the suffering of the people and calm the anger of the earth.
He arranged them to surround Mount Bandai in the east, west, south, north, and center.
This is the grand scale boundary known as the "Aizu Five Yakushi." Katsunojiji was established as the "Central Yakushi" to seal that ominous gate, making it one of the most important bases of Aizu Buddhism. Can you imagine how earnestly the people of that time looked up to this Buddha with their heartfelt prayers?
The lineage of "monozukuri" in Aizu that begins with 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 at Katsunojiji, while made of "single zelkova wood," also utilized the "kanshitsu" technique (a method using lacquer and hemp cloth), and advanced wooden joint techniques that would later become mainstream were already in use, showcasing cutting-edge technology for that time. It is said that Tokuitsu 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. Religious prayers eventually sublime 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 story of overwhelming Buddhist art and the grand boundary hidden in a tranquil village.
At Tabinoito, we offer tours in the Academic Style that thoroughly explain 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.
If you have a curiosity like, 'I want to directly feel the aura emitted by real national treasures, not just books or photos' or 'I want to understand the connection between Buddhist art and local culture on a deeper level,' why not visit Katsukyoji with us? Let us share the emotions waiting 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 explanation from our dedicated guide.
