⛩️ Kurama-dera (Kurama Temple)

Kurama-dera is the head temple of all Kurama-dera temples across Japan. It is said to have started in 770 AD when Jianzhen, a disciple of the Tang Dynasty's Toshodai-ji Temple, worshipped Bishamonten here. The main hall, the Golden Hall, enshrines Bishamonten, Senju Kannon, and the Guardian King. One of the temple's unique features is that its guardian statues are not the typical komainu (lion-dogs), but rather "A-un tigers." The statues are secret Buddha images that are unveiled once every 60 years during the year of the Tiger (the next unveiling will be in 2046). The stone floor in front of the Golden Hall, known as the "Kongō-doko," is modeled after the star mandala representing the fluctuations of cosmic energy and is a very popular energy spot. Kurama-dera is also known for the legend of Minamoto no Yoshitsune (Ushiwakamaru) who stayed here during his childhood and trained with the tengu. Along the steep mountain path connecting the main hall to the Oku-no-in, there are several spots related to Ushiwakamaru, such as "Kino-ne-michi," believed to be his training ground, a resting place with a spring, and the "Seibi-ishi" stone. Additionally, the temple features many sights worth seeing, including the winding path mentioned by Sei Shonagon in her essay collection "The Pillow Book," and the relocated study of Yoshiko Waka. The Reibō-den houses the national treasure "Three Statues of Bishamonten" and the important cultural property "Standing Kannon," among other precious Buddhist statues. A three-minute walk from Kurama Station leads to the mountain gate, where a cable car is available, making it accessible for elderly visitors and young children. If you have enough stamina, consider walking to the "Release Pond" and the "Demon King Waterfall" along the winding path. Moreover, the area around Kurama Station, adorned with striking decorations of the Great Tengu, has many souvenir shops and Japanese sweet shops that you can visit before or after your worship.

The head temple of the Kurama Kōkyō, which enshrines the secret Buddha, is located here. Nioh Wakamaru spent his childhood here, and legends say he trained with the Tengu. It houses several national treasures and important cultural properties. The "Kongō Bed" is a popular energy spot that attracts many visitors. There is a cable car available from the mountain gate.