Seyakuji Temple

Seyakuji is closely tied to the poet Yosa Buson, and holds a six-panel screen he painted while staying here. The temple is said to have been founded by Prince Maroko, and its principal image — a standing Yakushi Nyorai, a town-designated cultural property — is attributed to his own hand. Sent by imperial command to subdue the demons of Mount Oe, the prince is said to have carved seven Yakushi images and prayed for success; when he returned victorious he founded seven temples and enshrined one image in each. The seated wooden Aizen Myoo in the private worship hall, also a town-designated property, is venerated as a Buddha of marriage ties.