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A mysterious National Treasure perched on a sheer cliff.
Nageiredo Hall is the inner sanctuary of Sanbutsuji, a historic Tendai Buddhist temple. It clings to a sheer cliff at an elevation of 520 meters on the northern slope of Mount Mitoku. Legend says that an ascetic used supernatural powers to throw the hall into the rocky alcove. Believed to have been built in the late Heian period, its floor is supported by long pillars extending from the cliff. It is one of the oldest surviving examples of shrine and temple architecture, but how it was constructed remains a mystery.
Before entering the mountain, visitors must wear appropriate clothing and footwear and register at the hiking office behind the main hall of Mitokusan Sanbutsuji Temple. The one-way hike from the main hall to Nageiredo Hall is approximately 1 km and takes about 45 minutes. The challenging trail includes Kazura-zaka, where tangled tree roots cover the path; Kusari-zaka, where hikers climb a single slab of rock using an iron chain; and the slippery rocky ridges known as Uma-no-se and Ushi-no-se. Those who are not confident in their physical fitness can view Nageiredo Hall from the worship point at the foot of the mountain.
The surrounding area is part of Daisen-Oki National Park and was designated as Japan’s first Heritage site. Visitors can also take in impressive scenery, including vast old-growth forests and varied ravines.
Photographer Ken Domon is said to have called it “Japan’s finest building.”
Sanbutsuji Temple has temple lodging where visitors can experience Buddhist training.
Kusari-zaka, where hikers climb the rock using a single chain.
Kazura-zaka, where hikers make their way over tangled tree roots.
