＜Mitokusan Sanbutsuji＞A Cliffside Temple That Was a Sacred Site for Shugendo in Ancient Times｜Kurayoshi,MisasaFor recommended sightseeing and leisure spots inTabiiro

A Cliffside Temple That Was a Sacred Site for Shugendo in Ancient Times

The ancient temple "Sanbutsuji" is located on Mount Mitoku, approximately 899 meters above sea level in Tottori Prefecture. It has long been a sacred site for mountain worship and was established as a training ground for Shugendo practitioners. The temple enshrines three principal deities: Amida Nyorai (Amitabha Buddha), Shaka Nyorai (Shakyamuni Buddha), and Dainichi Nyorai (Vairocana Buddha). Its famous national treasure, Nageiredo, perched dramatically on a sheer cliff, is renowned for its stunning architectural beauty. Pilgrims must navigate steep mountain paths, climbing tree roots and rocks to reach this awe-inspiring structure. The temple grounds are surrounded by lush forests and include cultural treasures such as the Rinkoin retreat, where visitors can experience spiritual training, and scattered historic sites like Monjudou and Jizodou. Believed to be a sacred mountain temple created through divine power, Sanbutsuji offers a unique opportunity to purify the mind and body amidst its timeless serenity.

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The Overwhelming Architectural Beauty of "Nageiredo" Standing on a Cliff

The inner sanctuary of the temple, "Nageire-do," is said to have been constructed in the late Heian period. Legend has it that En no Ozunu, the founder of Shugendo, used mystical powers to throw the entire structure into place from flat ground. The method of its construction remains a mystery to this day. Perched on a sheer cliff, its architectural beauty, harmonized with nature, has been designated as a National Treasure.

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A Small Sweets Shop at the Foot of Mount Mitoku

The castella sweets and baked goods shop, "Hakurodo," is a takeout-only store located at the foot of Mt. Mitoku. It offers a variety of temple-inspired treats such as "Kaminjuji Castella," "Nageire Donuts," and "Kaminjuji Pudding." Perfect for a refreshing break after visiting the temple.

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Experience Casual Training at "Rinko-in"

At "Rinko-in," located at the foot of Mt. Mitoku, visitors can enjoy a casual half-day mini training experience. The program focuses on the three basics of temple practice: etiquette, devotion, and study. Activities include cleaning to purify the space, zazen meditation to harmonize mind and body, and learning dining etiquette through shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine). The experience is highly praised for offering valuable insights in just half a day.

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A national treasure, Nageiredo, perched on sheer cliffs, and a mountain steeped in legends of divine presence

Mitokusan Sanbutsuji

Address

1010 Mitoku, Misasa Town, Tohaku County, Tottori

Access

[Car] Approximately 50 minutes from Yonago Expressway Yubara IC

Official Website

https://www.mitokusan.jp/

TEL

+81-858-43-2666Please inform the staff that you found us through "Tabiiro".

FAX

+81-858-43-2661

SNS

Business hours

[Main Hall Hours] 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.
[Nageiredo Hall Hours] 8:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.
Note: Descent must be completed by 4:30 P.M.

Regular Holiday

Open year-round
Note: Mountain entry is prohibited during rain, snow, or severe weather. For details, please check the official website.

Fee

[Main Hall] Adults: 400 yen (Group of 20 or more: 350 yen), Children: 200 yen (Group of 20 or more: 150 yen)
[Nageiredo Hall] Adults: 1,200 yen (Group of 20 or more: 1,150 yen), Children: 600 yen (Group of 20 or more: 550 yen)
Note: Mountain climbing registration form required.

Parking