Okadera Temple (Ryugaiji)

Map

History & Origins

The temple is said to have been founded by Priest Gien on the site of the residence of Prince Kusakabe, a son of Emperor Tenmu. The legend that Gien sealed an evil dragon tormenting villagers by his spiritual power, covering it with a lid and pressing it down with a stone, is the origin of the name 'Ryugaiji' (Dragon Lid Temple). Its first appearance in historical records is in 740 (the 12th year of Tenpyo). In the Edo period it was revived by Hoju, head of Hasedera.

Highlights

The highlights are the seated statue of Nyoirin Kannon, the largest clay statue in Japan, and the seated statue of Priest Gien in dry-lacquer over a wooden core, designated a national treasure. The grounds are also known as a temple of flowers through the seasons, with rhododendrons and hydrangeas blooming profusely in season. As Japan's first sacred site for warding off misfortune, it draws many worshippers every year for misfortune-warding prayers.

Visitor Guide

The nearest access is by bus from Kintetsu Asuka Station or Kintetsu Kashiharajingu-mae Station, or about a 30-minute walk from Asuka Station. Visiting hours are 8:30 to 17:00 (to 16:30 from December to February). Admission is 500 yen for adults and 400 yen for high school and junior high school students. Allow about 60 to 90 minutes.

Best Season

Rhododendrons from late March to April and hydrangeas in June are especially beautiful and draw many visitors. Autumn leaves also color the grounds.

Blessings

Annual Events

• February

  Hoshi Matsuri (Setsubun Yakuyoke Daihoe, Setsubun Grand Service for Warding Off Misfortune)

  A grand service for warding off misfortune, held in connection with Setsubun. Many worshippers gather as the first temple in Japan for warding off misfortune.

• April

  Shakunage Matsuri (Rhododendron Festival)

  An event held to coincide with the season when several hundred rhododendrons bloom on the grounds.

Travel Plan

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