Yakushidō (Honjidō) (Important Cultural Property)
temple
Yakushidō (Honjidō) (Important Cultural Property)
薬師堂（本地堂）（重要文化財）
Overview
The Yakushidō has associations with both Shinto and Buddhism.
The largest structure within Toshogu Shrine, yet technically part of Rinnoji Temple, Yakushido enshrines Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddha of Healing, considered the true spiritual form of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Built in 1636 and restored after a 1961 fire, the hall is flanked by statues of the twelve heavenly generals, each wearing one of the zodiac animals in their crown. The ceiling features a dragon painting known as the Singing Dragon: a handclap directly beneath the dragon's head produces an echo that resonates through the hall for several seconds. The current painting is a restoration by Katayama Nanpu, as the original by Kano Yasunobu was lost in the 1961 fire.
Local tips
Remove shoes before entering any hall. Look for a shoe rack at the entrance. Carry a plastic bag for your shoes if none is provided.
Practical info
- Japanese name
- 薬師堂（本地堂）（重要文化財）
- Nearest station
- Tobu-Nikko Station (25 min bus)
- Reservations
- not required
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