Risshakuji is a temple complex of the Tendai Sect in Yamagata Prefecture. Its temple buildings are built up and in the side of a mountain, thus it is known as Yamadera. While its more than 1000 stairs to the top are quite a physical challenge, the adventurous hiker will be rewarded with beautiful natural scenery, glimpses of temples hundreds of years old, and the chance to meet a magnificent Buddhist statue at the uppermost temple.