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A mysterious national treasure standing on a precipitous cliff.
This hall was built as the inner sanctuary of Sanbutsuji Temple, a Kosatsu (an old temple with a long history) of the Tendai sect, and is perched on a steep cliff 520 meters above sea level on the north side of Mt.Mitoku. Legend has it that an ascetic threw the hall into a rock cave by the power of the Dharma. It is believed to have been built in the late Heian period (794-1185) in the kakegake-zukuri style with long pillars supporting the floor and is one of the oldest existing Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples.
When entering the mountain, please dress appropriately, wear safety gear, including shoes, and check in at the mountain climbing office behind the main hall of Mitoku-san Sanbutsu-Ji Temple. It takes about 1 km or 45 minutes from the main hall to the entrance to the temple. The steep mountain paths include Kazura-zaka, a slope with complicated tree roots, Kusari-zaka, a climb up a monolithic rock with iron chains, and Uma-no-se and Ushi-no-se, which are slippery rock surfaces. If you are not confident about your physical fitness, you can visit Yohaijo (a place for praying to the gods and Buddha from a distance), where you can view the Nageireido Temple from the foot of the mountain.
The entire area is included in the Daisenoki National Park area, and it is certified as the first Japan Heritage. The site also offers stunning scenery, including vast virgin forests and varied valleys.
It is said that photographer Domon Ken called it "the best architecture in Japan.
Sanbutsuji Temple has a lodging house where visitors can experience ascetic practices.
Climbing a rocky slope with a single chain.
Kazura-zaka Slope is going over complicated tree roots.
