This temple was established in 744 by Gyoki, the highest ranked priest, on the orders of Emperor Shomu. It is located in the middle of Mt. Takao and the formal name is Takao-san Yakuo-in Yuki-ji. It is a head temple of Shingon Buddhism, and one of the three major temples in the Kanto area with Narita-san Shinsho-ji and Kawasaki Daishi Heiken-ji. Izuna Daigongen is the principal image who has been believed to appear as a form of Fudo Myoo, Tengu which has been believed to be an attendant for Fudo Myoo and lived in the mountain so many statues of Tengu are placed on the premise.
Mt. Takao has been called the mountain for Shugendo (mountain asceticism) since ancient times and many yamabushi who practice mountain asceticism visit there. Goma fire ritual (one of the rituals with burning Goma sticks to dedicate to the deity) is performed everyday and limited-edition waterfall asceticism is performed, with which visitors can experience training activity.
There are many spiritual spots giving you various blessings, which makes this mountain recently popular to visit. For example, the Rokkon Shojo Ishiguruma purifies your six senses by rotating the stone wheel, the Negai Kanau Waku Kuguri increases the chances of your wishes by ringing the large priest's staff.
Shojin-ryori (Buddhist vegetarian dishes) served in the temple is arranged in modern style, don’t miss trying this taste this time.
Highlights
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Izuna Daigongen is the principal image.
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Many spiritual spots giving the blessings are spread around the mountain.
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Visitors can experience training activities of practicing mountain asceticism with yamabushi.
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Have a chance to taste Shojin-ryori.
