"A place I've always wanted to visit but couldn't because I love Buddhist art" For me, Katsujoji in Yukawa Village was exactly that kind of temple.
As I launched the 'Tabinoito' project, I finally made my long-held wish come true and visited, but... to be honest, I got a little lost (laughs).
In the tranquil rural landscape stands a small temple that seems to blend into the village. However, the moment I stepped inside that hall, I couldn't help but gasp. 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 unlike any other in the Tohoku region, and the grand historical mysteries hidden within.
The 12 Heian Buddha statues gathered at the village temple
In the Yakushido of Katsunojiji (reconstructed during the Muromachi period and designated as an important cultural property) and the repository, there are 12 statues from the early Heian period, including the 'Yakushi Nyorai seated statue', which is a national treasure, along with the flanking 'Nikkō and Gekkō Bosatsu statues'. It is extremely rare for such a large number of ancient statues to remain in one place, having survived wars and fires.
Particularly captivating is the national treasure 'Yakushi Nyorai seated statue' that sits in the center. Approximately 140 cm tall, its form, carved from a single zelkova tree, has a thick chest and an overwhelming volume, exuding a solid strength. Yet, depending on the angle from which you view it, you can also sense a youthful freshness and gentleness, giving it a mysterious charm.
Who left such magnificent statues here, and for what purpose?
[Historical Mystery] The barrier of the 'Aizu Five Yakushi' that calms 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 great damage to the region. Pained by this, Tokuichi carved five Yakushi Nyorai statues to save the people’s suffering and calm the anger of the earth.
He then arranged them to surround Mount Bandai in the east, west, south, north, and center.
This is the grand scale barrier known as the 'Aizu Five Yakushi'. Katsunojiji was established as the 'Central Yakushi' to seal the demon 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? It makes my heart warm just thinking about it.
The lineage of 'monozukuri' in Aizu that begins with the Buddha statues
Furthermore, when viewing the statues of Katsunojiji from an 'artistic and craft perspective', another interesting historical connection becomes apparent.
The statues of Katsunojiji, while being 'carved from a single zelkova tree', also employed the technique of 'kanshitsu' (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 Tokuichi brought top-notch sculptors and craftsmen from the capital to build his ideal Buddhist world in this place.
Experience an overwhelming journey of "beauty" and "prayer"
How was it? The overwhelming Buddhist art and the grand story of the boundary hidden in a peaceful village.
"Tabinoito" offers a 【Academic Style】 tour that carefully explains the intricate artistic features of these Buddhist statues (such as the beauty of the folds of 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 books or photographs." "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 emotion that awaits you beyond the doors of the hall after passing through the maze-like village paths.
