Takao-san Yakuō-in, Buddhist temple in Takaomachi, Japan
Takao-san Yakuō-in is a Buddhist temple in the mountain town of Takaomachi, Japan, spread across the forested slopes of Mount Takao. The complex includes several prayer halls built from dark timber, stone staircases winding through tall cedars, and smaller shrines scattered among the trees.
The founding took place in 744 when the monk Gyoki established a training ground for ascetic mountain practices here. Over the centuries, the site grew into a center for monks seeking spiritual discipline through meditation and physical hardship.
The name Yakuō-in refers to the healing medicine Buddha that pilgrims honor here, seeking protection for health and wellbeing even today. Visitors often see hikers pause at wooden prayer stands to hang small wooden plaques inscribed with personal wishes.
A cable car shortens the climb from Takaomachi Station, though reaching the upper temple grounds still requires walking along partly steep paths. Sturdy footwear helps, and stone steps can turn slippery when wet.
Throughout the temple grounds stand figures of Tengu, supernatural beings with long noses who, according to local lore, guard the mountain. Some of these statues wear red caps placed on them by worshippers as tokens of gratitude for answered prayers.
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