Hōyō-ji

【The oldest heartbeat of Aizu, the three-story pagoda that stops time】 The 1,300-year-old medieval history engraved in 'Hōyō-ji'

Nestled in the tranquility at the foot of the mountains to the west of Aizumisato Town, 'Hōyō-ji' is said to have been founded in the fourth year of Yōrō (720 AD) and is one of the oldest temples in the Aizu region. Stepping into the temple grounds, one can feel the air of the medieval era, as if the hands of modern clocks have stopped. As the 25th pilgrimage site of the Aizu Thirty-three Kannon, it continues to quietly heal the hearts of pilgrims.

■ The grandeur of the 'three-story pagoda' and 'Nio statues' that pierce the heavens

When it comes to the symbol of Hōyō-ji, it is the 'three-story pagoda' built during the Edo period, one of the few remaining in Fukushima Prefecture.

• The beauty of the soaring sky: The three-story pagoda, emerging from the dense cedar grove, boasts intricate craftsmanship and a heavy roof, embodying the dignity that has endured through the ages.
• The roar of the gatekeeper: The Nio statues seated at the Nio gate are designated as important cultural properties of the country, recognized as masterpieces from the Kamakura period. The powerful veins and dynamic muscle forms evoke an unwavering will to protect the Buddhist law, overwhelming viewers with their intensity.

■ The miracle of the 'Tora no Ozakura' nurtured by prayer

On the temple grounds, there stands the famous tree 'Tora no Ozakura' (Tiger's Tail Cherry Blossom), counted among the five cherry trees of Aizu.

• The beauty of a once-in-a-lifetime encounter: Its name comes from the way part of the stamen transforms to resemble petals, looking like a tiger's tail. In spring, the pale pink flowers that adorn the ancient temple seem to embody the 'fruition of prayers' of the people of Aizu who have overcome the harsh winter.

The shadow of the three-story pagoda marking the passage of time, and the gaze of the powerful Kongō deity. Would you like to experience the 'quiet strength' that has been preserved for 1,300 years in this place, which can be considered the origin of faith in Aizu?