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- Saiendō
Saiendo
According to the temple records, Gyoki (668–749), a priest who was a great supporter of the construction of the Great Buddha at Todaiji Temple in Nara, built the original Saiendo here in 718. The octagonal building was commissioned by Lady Tachibana, the mother of Empress Komyo (701–760), who was the consort of Emperor Shomu (701–756), the 45th emperor of Japan. It was reconstructed in 1250. The building enshrines a seated statue of Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddha of medicine and healing, which dates back to the Nara period (710–794). This is one of the largest dry-lacquer Buddhist images in Japan.
The Shuni-e ceremony is held at the Saiendo every year in early February. The ceremony dates back to 1261 and centers on praying for peace, a bountiful harvest, and prosperity for the temple, after which a ritual takes place to drive out demons. Armed with a pikestaff, Bishamonten, the deity of war, chases three demons away from the temple.
Statue of Yakushi Nyorai
This seated statue of Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddha of medicine and healing, dates from the Nara period (710–794) and has been designated a National Treasure. It is one of the largest dry-lacquer Buddhist images in Japan. The left hand holds a small jar, which may contain medicine or a magical cure.
Devotees believed that Yakushi Nyorai had miraculous healing powers and would offer gifts such as swords, helmets, mirrors and other implements they treasured in the hope of a cure. This statue attracted many such gifts, suggesting it was a popular object of devotion. These gifts are still preserved at the temple.