Yakusan Tokoji Temple (Sakata City, Yamagata Prefecture) Complete Guide | History and Highlights of the 17th Temple of the Shonai Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage
Located in Asuka, Sakata City, Yamagata Prefecture, Yakusan Tokoji Temple is a Soto Zen Buddhist temple that attracts many visitors as the 17th temple of the Shonai Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage. It is an ancient temple said to have been founded in 718 AD (Yoro 2), and its principal image is the Eleven-Faced Kannon Bodhisattva, one of the three great sacred Buddhas of Shonai. This article provides a detailed introduction to Tokoji Temple, including its history, highlights, and access information.
History and Origin of Yakusan Tokoji Temple
Legend of its Founding in 718 AD
There is a mystical legend about the founding of Tokoji Temple that is passed down in the Shonai region. In 718 AD (Yoro 2), a mysterious floating log emitting light drifted ashore at Sakata Port. It is said that nine Kannon statues were carved from this sacred tree.
These nine statues were divided into three groups, each enshrined in an important temple in the Shonai region:
- Motoki Triad: Takadera Shokoji Temple (Yuza Town)
- Nakaki Triad: Tokoji Temple (Sakata City)
- Sueki Triad: Hagurosan (Tsuruoka City)
Due to this legend, the Eleven-Faced Kannon Bodhisattva, the principal image of Tokoji Temple, is revered as one of the “Three Great Sacred Buddhas of Shonai,” along with the Kannon statues of Hagurosan and Takadera Temple.
Development as a Soto Zen Temple
Tokoji Temple, as a Soto Zen temple, has developed over a long history as a center of local faith. Its mountain name, Yakuozan, is thought to be related to the worship of Yakushi Nyorai (Medicine Buddha), and it has also functioned as a place for people to pray for healing from illness and good health.
During the Edo period, under the patronage of the Shonai Domain, Tokoji Temple was established as the 17th temple on the Shonai Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage. Pilgrimages to Kannon temples were popular among common people, and Tokoji Temple has welcomed many visitors as an important pilgrimage site.
Highlights of Tokoji Temple
Principal Image: Eleven-Faced Kannon Bodhisattva
The greatest highlight of Tokoji Temple is its principal image, the Eleven-Faced Kannon Bodhisattva. This Kannon statue, said to have been carved from a piece of driftwood discovered in Sakata Port in the second year of the Yoro era (815 AD), is one of the three great sacred Buddhas of Shonai and attracts special devotion.
The Eleven-Faced Kannon is a Kannon Bodhisattva with eleven faces on its head, believed to watch over and save all sentient beings from all directions. The Kannon statue at Tokoji Temple is known as a highly efficacious Buddha that has received the prayers of many people over many years.
The Great Kannon of Peace
The Kannon Hall, built in recent years, houses a magnificent 6-meter-tall Great Kannon of Peace. This statue was created to commemorate post-war peace and has become a symbolic presence of Tokoji Temple in modern times.
Its majestic white form conveys the preciousness of peace and compassion to visitors. Inside the Kannon Hall, visitors can view the Great Kannon of Peace up close, and many are deeply moved by its power and beauty.
The Kannon Hall and Temple Grounds
The grounds of Tokoji Temple are a tranquil and peaceful space. Although the Kannon Hall was built recently, it incorporates traditional temple architectural styles, creating a solemn atmosphere.
Besides the main hall and the Kannon Hall, the grounds also contain the graves of successive chief priests and groups of stone Buddha statues, showcasing elements that evoke a long history. You can enjoy the beauty of nature throughout the seasons: cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, and vibrant autumn leaves.
Goshuin (Temple Seal)
At Tokoji Temple, you can receive a Goshuin as the 17th temple of the Shonai Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage. The Goshuin is given out at the Tokoji Kannon Hall and is sought after by many pilgrims as a memento of their visit.
The Goshuin features the calligraphy of “Eleven-Faced Kannon Bodhisattva” and the temple’s seal. It is an important plaque for those on the Shonai Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage.
About the Shonai Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage
Significance of the Pilgrimage
The Shonai Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage is a pilgrimage route visiting 33 Kannon temples scattered throughout the Shonai region of Yamagata Prefecture (Sakata City, Tsuruoka City, Yuza Town, etc.). This pilgrimage is based on the belief that by visiting sacred sites corresponding to the 33 manifestations of Kannon Bodhisattva, one can be saved from all suffering.
Tokoji Temple is the 17th temple on this pilgrimage route, located midway through. Many pilgrims visit this site to pray for purification of mind and body and the fulfillment of their wishes.
Relationship with surrounding sacred sites
Before and after Tokoji Temple are temples 16 and 18. Visiting these in order allows you to experience the history, culture, and nature of the Shonai region. A pilgrimage is not merely a religious act, but also an enjoyable journey to discover the charm of the region.
Basic Information
Location and Contact Information
- Temple Name: Yakusan Tokoji Temple (Soto Zen Buddhism)
- Address: 104, Odobata, Asuka, Sakata City, Yamagata Prefecture 998-0112
- Phone Number: 0234-52-3366
- Sect: Soto Zen Buddhism
- Pilgrimage Site: 17th of the Shonai Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage Sites
Visiting Hours and Admission Fee
- Visiting Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Admission Fee: Free (Donations welcome)
- Advance Application: Required (Advance contact is recommended if you wish to receive a Goshuin stamp or special viewing)
Access Information
Access by Train
- Approximately 10 minutes on foot from JR Uetsu Main Line “Sunagoshi Station”
- Approximately 15 minutes by taxi from Sakata Station
Access by Car
- Approximately 15 minutes from the Sakata Chuo Interchange on the Nihonkai Tohoku Expressway
- Approximately 30 minutes from the Shonai Asahi Interchange on the Yamagata Expressway
Parking
- Passenger cars: 20 spaces
- Large buses: Parking available
- Parking fee: Free
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Highlights in Sakata City
When visiting Tokoji Temple, it is recommended to also visit other tourist attractions in Sakata City.
Sankyo Warehouses
A rice storage warehouse built during the Meiji era, it is a building that symbolizes the history of Sakata. The zelkova tree-lined avenue is beautiful and it is a popular spot for taking pictures.
Hiyoriyama Park
A park located on a hill overlooking Sakata Port, where you can enjoy a spectacular view of the Sea of Japan. It is also known as a famous cherry blossom viewing spot.
Honma Museum of Art
A museum exhibiting the art collection of the Honma family. You can learn about the culture of the Shonai region.
Other Temples of the Shonai Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage
Those planning a pilgrimage to the temples can have a more fulfilling experience by visiting the temples before and after Tokoji Temple. Each temple has its own unique history and charm, allowing you to experience the depth of Buddhist culture in the Shonai region.
Points and Manners for Visiting
Etiquette for Visiting
When visiting Tokoji Temple, please observe the following basic etiquette:
- Bow at the Temple Gate: Before entering the temple grounds, bow at the temple gate to compose yourself.
- Purify at the Water Basin: Purify your hands and mouth before visiting.
- Visiting the Main Hall/Kannon Hall: Quietly join your hands in prayer and offer your heartfelt prayer.
- Photography: Photography inside the halls may require permission. Please check in advance.
Notes on Receiving a Goshuin (Temple Seal)
A Goshuin is given as proof of your visit. It is customary to leave your goshuincho (stamp book) before visiting the temple and pick it up afterward. The goshuin fee is typically around 300 yen, but sometimes it is left to your discretion.
Seasons to Visit Tokoji Temple
Spring at Tokoji Temple
In spring, the temple grounds are filled with cherry blossoms, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Mid-to-late April is the best time to visit, offering beautiful photographs of the cherry blossoms and the Kannon Hall.
Summer at Tokoji Temple
This season is beautiful with fresh greenery, and you can enjoy the cool tranquility of the temple grounds. Summers in the Shonai region are relatively cool, making it a suitable climate for visiting.
Autumn at Tokoji Temple
Autumn leaves adorn the temple grounds, creating a peaceful atmosphere for worship. Late October to early November is the best time to see the autumn foliage.
Winter at Tokoji Temple
Tokoji Temple amidst a snowy landscape possesses a fantastical beauty. However, caution is needed during periods of heavy snowfall. During winter, visiting hours may change, so we recommend checking in advance.
Model Course
Sakata City 1-Day Sightseeing Course
Morning
- 9:00 Visit Tokoji Temple (No. 17)
- 10:00 Visit Sankyo Warehouse
- 11:30 Seafood Lunch in Sakata City
Afternoon
- 13:00 Stroll through Hiyoriyama Park
- 14:30 Visit Honma Museum of Art
- 16:00 Stroll around Sakata Port
Shonai Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage Course
When planning a pilgrimage, it is possible to visit the temples in Sakata City, including Tokoji Temple, in one day. It is a good idea to plan an efficient route to visit temples No. 15 to No. 20 in advance.
Cultural Properties and Treasures of Tokoji Temple
Tokoji Temple possesses cultural properties and treasures that have been preserved and passed down through a long history. The temple houses the principal image, the Eleven-Faced Kannon Bodhisattva, as well as historical Buddhist implements and ancient documents.
These temple treasures are usually not open to the public, but may be displayed on special occasions. Please contact the temple directly for details.
Connection with the Community
Tokoji Temple serves as a center of faith for the local community, hosting various events and activities. It is a beloved place for locals to honor their ancestors and participate in annual events, and is visited regularly by both tourists and residents.
During the New Year holidays, the spring and autumn equinoxes, and Obon (Buddhist festival), the temple is bustling with many worshippers, strengthening the bonds of the local community.
Summary
Yakusan Tokoji Temple is a historic temple with a legend of being founded in the second year of the Yoro era (818 AD). It is the 17th temple on the Shonai Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage, welcoming many worshippers. It boasts numerous attractions, including the Eleven-Faced Kannon Bodhisattva, one of the three great sacred Buddhas of Shonai, and the recently erected 6-meter-tall Peace Kannon.
Its convenient location, just a 10-minute walk from JR Sunagoshi Station, is a major draw, making it ideal for combining with sightseeing in Sakata City. When visiting the Shonai region, be sure to stop by Tokoji Temple and experience its history and spiritual significance.
Spending time in the tranquil temple grounds, calming your mind and experiencing the compassion of Kannon Bodhisattva, will be a precious escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Whether you’re planning a pilgrimage or simply visiting as part of your Sakata sightseeing, we hope your visit to Tokoji Temple will be a memorable one.
