Map
An ancient temple of the Chizan school of Shingon Buddhism on Mt. Takao (599 m) in Hachioji, Tokyo. It is said to have been opened in 744 (the 16th year of Tenpyo) by Gyoki and is counted as one of the three great head temples of the Kanto region. Also known as a sacred mountain of Shugendo, it draws about three million worshippers and hikers a year, and is internationally famous as a three-star destination in the Michelin Guide.
Temple Info
- Sect
- Shingon, Chizan school
- Principal Image
- Iizuna Gongen
- Founded
- Tenpyo 16 (744)
History & Origins
It began in 744 (the 16th year of Tenpyo) when the bodhisattva Gyoki enshrined Yakushi Nyorai. Later, in 1375 (the 1st year of Eiwa), Shungen Daitoku revived it and enshrined Iizuna Gongen, and it developed as a training center for Shugendo. In the Edo period it became a prayer site of the Tokugawa shogunate and drew the devotion of the common people of Edo. It continues today as a head temple of the Chizan school of Shingon Buddhism.
Highlights
Besides the main shrine (Gongendo), the Daishido and the Oku-no-in Fudodo are registered as Tokyo Metropolitan cultural properties. On a clear day, the view from the summit takes in Mt. Fuji. Cedar trees hundreds of years old line the approach, creating the atmosphere of a sacred mountain.
Visitor Guide
Walk, or take the cable car (first departure 8:00, last 17:45) from Takaosanguchi Station on the Keio Line. The cable car takes about 6 minutes to reach the mountainside station. Hiking on Trail No. 1 takes about 90 minutes. The grounds are free to enter (some facilities charge a fee).
Best Season
The 'Ohiwatari-sai' fire-walking festival in March and the autumn foliage season (mid to late November) are especially busy. The mountain is also known for cherry blossoms and wild mountain flowers in spring and maples in autumn.
Annual Events
- March
Daihiwatarisai (Great Fire Walking Festival, Kashozanmai)
A Shugendo event in which yamabushi mountain ascetics walk barefoot over flames from burned goma sticks. Worshippers can also walk across.
- April
Shunki Taisai (Spring Grand Festival)
The spring grand festival of Yakuoin, in which goma fire rituals and services by yamabushi mountain ascetics are performed solemnly.
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