Yakushiji Temple

Yakushiji Temple was built in 680 under Emperor Temmu to pray for the recovery of his sick wife. The temple was initially located at Fujiwara-kyo, the capital at the time, but was relocated to its location today. The temple was burned down through fires but much of it has completed reconstruction with exception of the East Pagoda which is estimated to be complete in 2019. Yakushiji Temple has a completely symmetrical layout with the main hall intervening two pagodas. Yakushiji Temple was one of the Seven Great Temples of Japan.