Hōyō-ji

【Aizu's oldest heartbeat, the three-story pagoda that stops time】 The 1,300-year medieval history carved into 'Hoyoji'

Nestled in the tranquility at the foot of the mountains to the west of Aizumisato, 'Hoyoji' is said to have been founded in the fourth year of the Yoro era (720 AD) and 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 'Kongorikishi statues' that pierce the heavens

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

• The beauty of the soaring form: The three-story pagoda emerges from the dense cedar grove, its intricate joinery and heavy roof exuding a dignity that has withstood the test of time.
• The roar of the gatekeeper: The Kongorikishi statue seated at the Nio Gate is designated as an important cultural property of the country, recognized as a masterpiece from the Kamakura period. The powerful veins and dynamic musculature convey an unwavering will to protect the Buddhist law, overwhelming viewers with its intensity.

■ The miracle nurtured by prayer: The 'Tora no Ozakura' cherry blossom

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

• The beauty of a once-in-a-lifetime encounter: It is named so because part of the stamens transforms to resemble petals, looking like a tiger's tail. In spring, the pale pink flowers adorn the ancient temple, symbolizing 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 eternal time and the gaze of the powerful Kongorikishi. Would you like to experience the 'quiet strength' that has been preserved for 1,300 years in this place, considered the origin of faith in Aizu?