In the mountains northeast of Yamagata is the beautiful Yamadera, so named because of the way the temple, which was founded over 1000 years ago, is built into the side of a mountain.
The temple is also known for a visit by the famous poet Basho, who composed a short poem about the peace and stillness of the area.
One warm summer evening I ventured up there to experience the peace and stillness for myself
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