Oka-dera Temple

What it is

• Japan's first厄除け (yakuyoke) temple.
• Also known as Ryugai-ji Temple.
• Founded by the monk Gien.
• Origin is the former residence of Prince Kusakabe.

What to see

• Japan's largest clay statue of Nyoirin Kannon.
• Main hall, rebuilt in 1805.
• Niomon gate, rebuilt in 1612.
• Wooden dry lacquer statue of Gien.
• Current temple grounds on Okayama mountain side.
• Original temple site is a national historic site.

Notes written by Japan Gems from facts in Japanese Wikipedia.