Explore Autumn Nature and History at Yamadera Temple in the Sky, Yamagata

Yamadera Temple is Yamagata City’s premier tourist attraction, steeped in ancient traditions of asceticism and faith. It is a hallowed ground where numerous haiku poets like Matsuo Basho penned exquisite verses. Its timeless beauty continues to captivate modern-day travelers, drawing in diverse visitors. Autumn, in particular, emerges as the prime season for admiring the fall foliage. We’ll also highlight nearby attractions that enhance the Yamadera Temple experience.

Hojusan-Risshakuji Temple: A Scenic Fall Foliage Destination

Hojusan-Risshakuji Temple, also known as Yamadera Temple, boasts a distinguished reputation. The journey to the Great Buddha Hall is substantial, taking about an hour from the entrance and involving a climb of 1,015 stone steps. Visitors need suitable attire and footwear. Choosing to visit during spring to autumn is advisable, as winter brings snow and slippery paths. It’s believed that with each step taken on these stone stairs, one’s worldly desires gradually wane, so people called it a sanctuary for spiritual contemplation. Upon reaching the Okunoin Hall, visitors often encounter a profound sense of tranquility. The famous haiku poet, Matsuo Basho, is celebrated for composing the verse “How still it is here–Stinging into the stones, The locusts’ trill” (Translated by Donald Keene) along this path. Throughout the journey, numerous historical sites and scenic viewpoints provide ample photo and relaxation opportunities.

Hours	– Yamadera Temple Tourist Information Center 9:30AM – 4:00PM (April to November), 10:00AM – 3:30PM (December to March) – Closed on Wednesdays
Address	4495-15 Yamadera, Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture
Access	(To the entrance of the approach) – A 25-minute drive from Yamagata Eki-Nishiguchi Washington Hotel and Yamagata Nanokamachi Washington Hotel – A 20-minute train ride from JR Yamagata Station to JR Yamadera Station, and a short walk from the station.
URL	https://www.yamaderakankou.com/index.html

Discover the Potent Synergy of Nature and Spirituality at Tarumi Iseki Ruin

Minenoura, situated deep within the mountainous surroundings of Yamadera Temple, is where the monk Jikaku Daishi Ennin conceived the idea of constructing the temple. In contrast to Risshakuji Temple, Minenoura lacks well-maintained stairways and appeals to adventurous mountain-climbing enthusiasts. Easily reachable on foot within approximately 15 minutes from Yamadera Temple, it is a recommended post-temple visit for those with the energy to explore a bit more. Tarumi-Iseki Ruin in Minenoura offers a captivating spectacle of colossal rocks riddled with countless beehive-like cavities. The wooden Torii gate and the deity Acalanatha are enshrined within these rocks, exuding a palpable sense of mystical power. It’s a place where nature and spirituality intertwine in enigmatic harmony.

Hours	– Yamadera Temple Tourist Information Center 9:30AM-4:00PM (April to November), 10:00AM-3:30PM (December to March) – Closed on Wednesdays
Address	4495-15 Yamadera, Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture
Access	(To the entrance of the approach) – A 25-minute drive from Yamagata Eki-Nishiguchi Washington Hotel and Yamagata Nanokamachi Washington Hotel – A 20-minute train ride from JR Yamagata Station to JR Yamadera Station, and a short walk from the station.
URL	https://www.yamaderakankou.com/index.html

COZAB GELATO – Yamagata’s Finest Gelato Experience for Your Break

After a stroll through the Yamadera Temple, there’s no better place to unwind than at COZAB GELATO. While it was once called Yamadera Temple it’s home, this delightful gelato haven now operates within the serene confines of the Furusato no Mori Recreation Clubhouse in the Yamagata General Sports Park. Conveniently, the West Parking Lot is the closest parking option. COZAB GELATO stands out as a gelato specialty shop, exclusively utilizing locally sourced ingredients from Yamagata. Their commitment to avoiding processed additives ensures you can relish these authentic flavors and fragrances of natural ingredients. Adding to the attractiveness, they unveil seasonal limited-time flavors that will leave you yearning for return visits. It is a remarkable opportunity to savor the distinctive tastes of Yamagata. If you’re craving gelato at home, COZAB GELATO has you covered with their expanding range of online sales, so be sure to explore their delectable choices.

Hours	11:00AM – 4:30PM (Closed Tuesdays)
Address	Yamagata General Sports Park, 1 Sanno, Tendo City, Yamagata Prefecture
Access	-A 10-minute drive from the entrance of the approach to Yamadera Temple. -A 15-minute drive from Yamagata Eki-Nishiguchi Washington Hotel and Yamagata Nanokamachi Washington Hotel -A 19-minute train ride from JR Yamagata Station to JR Tendo Minami Station, and a 17-minute walk from the station
URL	https://cozabgelato.com/