Hōyō-ji

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

Nestled in the tranquility at the foot of the mountains to the west of Aizumisato Town, stands "Hōyō-ji." Believed to have been founded in the fourth year of Yōrō (720 AD), this site is one of the oldest temples in the Aizu region. Once you step into the temple grounds, you are enveloped in an atmosphere reminiscent 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 the "Nio statues" that pierce the sky

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.

• Beauty of the skyward form: The three-story pagoda, emerging from the dense cedar grove, exudes an elegance that has withstood the test of time with its intricate joinery and heavy roof.
• 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 musculature evoke an unwavering will to protect the Buddhist law, overwhelming viewers with their imposing presence.

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

Within the temple grounds, the renowned tree "Tora no Ozakura" (Tiger's Tail Cherry), counted among the five cherry trees of Aizu, takes root.

• The beauty of a once-in-a-lifetime encounter: Named for its appearance resembling a tiger's tail, part of the stamen transforms to look like petals. In spring, the pale pink flowers adorning the ancient temple seem to embody the "fruition of prayers" from the people of Aizu who have endured the harsh winter.

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