FUKUSHIMA

Sazaedo Temple

Mind-bending architecture of a one-of-a-kind temple in Fukushima

The only wooden double-helix styled building in Japan, this mysterious temple located in Aizuwakamatsu must be experienced to be believed. Located partially up the slopes of Mt. Iimoriyama, the site of the tragic end of the 19 samurai boys of the Byakkotai during the Boshin War, Sazaedo Temple is a curious architectural anomaly that has fascinated visitors from around the world.

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The Twisted Genius of Sazaedo’s Design

Climbing the long stairs up the hillside, you can already sense that something is a bit odd about Sazaedo as you approach. The 16.5-meter-tall hexagonal structure isn’t quite symmetrical, as most buildings are. Once inside, you learn the reason: the double-helix structure of the temple allows visitors to walk up to the top and back down the structure without ever crossing paths.

It was a brilliant design with a purpose, as worshippers at the temple could visit each of the 33 Kannon statues that were once housed here without turning back to disturb other worshippers. Another well-known example of the double-helix design is the staircase of the Château de Chambord in France, which is said to have been designed by Leonardo da Vinci.

A Unique Piece of Fukushima’s Buddhist History

While other double-helix designed buildings exist in Japan, Sazaedo is the only one in the world that is completely made of wood. Considering that it has stood here in its original condition since 1796, the construction is quite remarkable. Over its two centuries of existence, countless pilgrims have worshiped here, many leaving behind their senjafuda paper stickers, which plaster the walls and ceilings of the temple like an ancient form of graffiti.