Nokogiri-Yama Nihonji Temple

This temple was established about 1300 years ago by a Buddhist priest, Gyoki (668-749). People call this temple from this origin “The Kanto region’s oldest Chokugansho”. In the early time when it was opened, this temple was so large that seven monasteries were located and recorded of stay by highly ranked priests including Roben (774-689) and Kukai (774-835). The temple was still located at the side of Mt. Nokogiri-yama at 329.4 m elevation. You can worship at Yakushi-Ruriko Nyorai (Medicine Buddha who cures suffering using the medicine of him), Hyakusyaku Kannon (a tall relief image of Kannon carved into one of the quarry walls) , and Sen-Gohyaku Rakan statues (1500 hand-carved arhat sculptures).

Notably, the principal image, Yakushi-Ruriko Nyorai, is known as the Medicine Buddha and has spiritually saved many people wishing for recovery from disease. A simple appearance carved into a large rock and a gentle face withholding a medicine pot on his left hand, which makes you feel how divine this Buddha is. Some military commanders visited to pray for easing their injury via a war, you can also have a peaceful time by praying at the historically-honorable great Buddha.

Walking courses around the temple are surrounded by seasonal nature consisting of Daibutsu Hiroba, which is the main area, Sancho, Rakan, Cyuhuku, and Omote Sando areas. Walking the whole course for about one and half hours is recommended as small hiking. The walking course is well equipped but there are many steps and some areas are tough for walking so wearing comfortable shoes is recommended.