Statue of Yakushi Nyorai
This seated statue of Yakushi Nyorai, the healing Buddha, dates from the Nara period (710–794) and is a National Treasure. It is one of the largest dry-lacquer Buddhist images in Japan. The left hand holds a small jar, which may contain medicine or a magical cure.
Devotees believed that Yakushi Nyorai had miraculous healing powers and donated gifts such as swords, helmets and mirrors in the hope of a cure. This statue attracted many such gifts, suggesting it was a popular object of devotion. These gifts are still preserved at the temple.