⛩️ Kasyapa Mountain Maitreya Temple

Kashōzan Miroku-ji Temple is located on the eastern side of the Tanigawa Mountain Range, north of Numata City. The air within the temple grounds is fresh and very comfortable. Miroku-ji was founded in the year 848. It is widely known as the "Mountain of Tengu," attracting many worshippers from all over the country. The founder of the Sōtō school, Zen Master Tensun, had a child prodigy named Chūhō, who is considered the Tengu of Kashōzan. It is said that after the Zen master's passing, Chūhō vowed to relieve the suffering of all beings and ascended to the mountain peak. After his ascension, a Tengu mask was left at his feet, leading to the belief that he was the embodiment of a Tengu, giving rise to the custom of worshipping the Tengu mask as a manifestation of Chūhō. Notable attractions include one of Japan's three great Tengu masks, the "Japan's First Tengu Mask," and the "Great Tengu," created to prevent further traffic accidents. These two masks measure 6.5 meters in length and 2.8 meters in height. Such impressive masks can only be seen at Kashōzan Miroku-ji Temple. Inside Chūhō Hall, which houses the Great Tengu mask, there is also an astonishing collection of various Tengu masks. It is a rare experience to see so many Tengu masks at once. In addition to Chūhō Hall, Kashōzan Miroku-ji Temple features other historic buildings such as the Main Hall, Bell Tower Hall, and the Main Store, all of which are well worth appreciating. There are also Kashō Hall and Kaizan Hall, and it is highly recommended not to miss the opportunity to visit or worship there!

There is a custom of "borrowing masks" here, where visitors borrow a Tengu mask to take home and bring it back during their next visit to pay respects, while also purchasing a new mask from the shops in front to offer. During the summer festival event "Numata Matsuri," only women carry the large Tengu masks enshrined in the temple, an activity known as "Tengu Mikoshi," which is the most eye-catching part of the festival and very popular. Every 10 years, there is a special event called "Okaichō," where one can meet the Tengu. The next one will be in May 2025. General prayers are held three times a day (10:30, 11:30, 13:30), and registration must be completed 20 minutes before the start. There is also an opportunity to experience training. For details regarding costs and dates, please inquire.