Ishii-dera Temple

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"Ishii-dera Temple" in the Ossaka district of Sakurai City is a small temple housing the Important Cultural Property "Stone Bas-relief of Yakushi Triad," said to be Japan's oldest stone Buddha. Crafted in the late 7th century, this triad is carved in relief onto a massive sandstone block, and its smile possesses a gentle beauty evoking the "Asuka Smile." The delicate carving marks remaining after many years tell of the deep prayers and high technology of people at that time. Located in a quiet residential area away from the main tourist centers, it is a precious place giving unforgettable emotion to history lovers wishing to touch the origins of Japanese stone art.