⛩️ Daweide Temple

The lush green 牛瀧山 (Uotaki Mountain) is located about 50 minutes by bus from the center of Kishiwada City in Osaka Prefecture. Nestled in the mountains is 大威德寺 (Daiwaderaji Temple), which is said to have been built by the founder of the Shugendo tradition, the monk En no Gyoja. It is also a well-known spot for autumn foliage in Osaka. The 葛城山系 (Katsuragi Mountain Range), stretching from 友之島 (Tomonoshima) in Wakayama Prefecture to 王寺町 (Oji Town) in Nara Prefecture, spans a total length of 112 kilometers and is dotted with sacred sites such as経塚 (kyōzuka, burial mounds for scriptures), waterfalls, and giant rocks. It is one of the sacred sites of "葛城修驗" (Katsuragi Shugendo), where it is said that Kūkai also practiced. This temple has a long history. The temple fell into disrepair during the Warring States period, but today it retains a multi-storied pagoda built during the Muromachi period, which is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The striking 13-meter tall vermilion pagoda is particularly captivating, especially in autumn when it is framed by the vibrant red leaves. The peak season for autumn foliage is from mid to late November, during which the "牛瀧山紅葉祭" (Uotaki Mountain Autumn Foliage Festival) is held, selling local specialties and goshuin (temple stamps). There are also several walking trails within the area, where visitors can enjoy natural scenery such as numerous waterfalls and suspension bridges within about an hour's hike.

The temple located in Mount Gyotaki is also a famous spot for viewing autumn leaves. It is said to have been built by the founder of the Shugendo, En no Gyōja. The tahōtō (multi-storied pagoda) constructed during the Muromachi period is now designated as an Important Cultural Property of the country.