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2 Yakuoin Onsenji Temple

Entrance of Yakuoin Onseji Temple
1)Entrance of Yakuoin Onseji Temple
2)Statues in Yakuoin Onsenji Temple
3)A view from the temple and its garden

Admire a Time-Honoured Place of Worship

In Japan, there are several myths and legends linked to the onsen origins. According to one, the hot spring source in Yamashiro Onsen was discovered by the high priest Gyoki (668-749) on his pilgrimage to Mt. Hakusan. Gyoki also founded a Buddhist temple known today as the Yakuoin Onsenji Temple. The temple stands on the hill directly behind the soyu (public bathhouse) located in the centre of Yamashiro Onsen and features a beautiful, vermillion-lacquered main hall. A statue of the 11-faced kannon (goddess of mercy) which was carved during the Heian era (794-1185) is worth a look. In autumn, postcard views of vivid red and yellow maple leaves await.

Information

Yakuoin Onsenji Temple

Access: 15 minutes by local bus from JR Kaga Onsen Station.
Get off at ‘Yamashiro Onsen’, 3 minutes on foot. Address: 4-18-40 Yamashiro Onsen, Kaga, 922-0242 Ishikawa