Yamada-dera Temple Ruins

A Lost Monument of

Power and Faith

Hidden in the peaceful countryside of Asuka, the Yamada-dera Temple Ruins offer a rare glimpse into the architectural and political ambitions of Japan’s Asuka Period. Founded in 641 AD by Soga no Kurayamada no Ishikawa no Maro, a powerful aristocrat of the influential Soga clan, the temple was one of the grandest of its time—built to rival even Asuka-dera. However, just decades later, Yamada-dera became the site of tragedy and political drama when its founder was accused of treason and forced to commit suicide. Despite its violent history, the temple represents a pinnacle of early Japanese Buddhist architecture and culture. Excavations have revealed intricately designed pagoda foundations, roof tiles, and the remains of a large central hall, showcasing continental influence from Tang China and Baekje. For travelers intrigued by archaeology, ancient religion, and the rise and fall of noble families, Yamada-dera tells a haunting story buried beneath serene farmland.

Explore the Sights

See photos that bring Yamada-dera Temple Ruins to life.

A stone monument with Japanese characters stands in a grassy field under a clear blue sky. In the background, there are trees and small houses.
Open grassy field with a pathway marked by small wooden posts and wire, leading towards dense green trees and a hillside under a clear blue sky.
A historical plaque with Japanese text and an illustration, situated in a grassy field with a circular stone arrangement and trees in the background.
Ancient stone monument with carved turtle shapes in a grassy outdoor setting.
A stone or concrete circular form with an arrow carved into it, surrounded by three rectangular stones, on grass with small plants.
Open grassy landscape with a mound and a tall stone pillar, surrounded by hills and trees under a clear blue sky.
A traditional Japanese wooden shrine with a curved roof, wooden steps leading up to the entrance, surrounded by trees with autumn foliage, and a blue sky overhead.
Two stone monuments with square indentations sit among green foliage and trees in a rural garden, with houses and a hill in the background.
A stone monument with Japanese characters stands among trees and greenery in a rural area, with a small wooden building and trees in the background.
A small wooden shrine on a rock, with a roof, in a grassy yard with trees and a fence in the background.