Mount Atago, Sacred mountain in Ukyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
Description
Mount Atago rises about 924 meters above Kyoto with a marked trail through thick forests featuring stone steps to the summit. A shrine stands at the peak, marking its spiritual center.
History
The mountain became a religious center around 1300 years ago when Buddhist monks established it as a pilgrimage destination. These early foundations shaped it into a significant spiritual place.
Culture
The shrine on the summit draws pilgrims who climb at night during the annual July-August pilgrimage seeking blessings for fire protection. This nighttime ritual connects visitors to long-standing spiritual traditions practiced on the mountainside.
Practical
The climb starts in Kiyotaki village and covers steep terrain, usually taking three to five hours for a round trip. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water, as the paths are demanding and facilities are sparse.
Did you know?
The mountain houses the main shrine of a network of roughly 900 fire protection shrines spread across Japan. This connection makes it the center of a far-reaching religious movement.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Atago).
Toranomon Hills
238 m
Atago Shrine
29 m
Atago Green Hills
292 m
Seishō-ji
206 m
Okura Museum of Art
554 m
Toranomon Twin Building
442 m
Holland Hills
578 mTokyo World Gate
267 m
Nikkei Toranomon Building
492 m
Musée Tomo
370 m
Shimpuku-ji
120 m
Tentoku-ji
170 m
Toranomon Daibiru Building
594 m
Eikan-in
88 m
Nan'ō Park
412 m
Taiwan Cultural Center
237 m
Atago Green Hills Mori Tower
297 m
Minato Science Museum
259 m
Kikuchi Kanjitsu Memorial Tomo Museum
405 m
National Museum of Territory and Sovereignty
584 m
NHK Museum of Broadcasting
124 m
Imperial College of Engineering
621 m
Meteorological Science Museum by the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA)
261 m
Kōshō-in
96 m
Shusse no Ishidan
17 m
Kyōsho-in
182 m
Eiryū-in
136 m
Kōgaku-in
130 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes