Imakoyasan

Established in the early Heian period in 822 by Kobo Daishi Kukai, Imakoyasan is a sacred site for Shingon Esoteric Buddhism, with a history spanning over 1,200 years. Centered around Ryugeji Temple, which was deemed a special main temple of Kishu Koyasan, as well as Kongoji Temple and Niu Shrine, the site has prospered with 7 temples and 12 affiliated institutions as a base for political temples.

Despite facing adversities like natural disasters, war disturbances during the Sengoku period, and great fires in the Edo period, numerous valuable cultural assets still stand today. Notable among them are the wooden statue of the Eleven-faced Kannon in the Kannon Hall (a national important cultural property) from the early Fujiwara period and the lion heads of Niu Shrine from the Kamakura period, painted in black ink and adorned with gold and vermilion (also a national important cultural property). These relics vividly convey the past glories of the area.

Surrounded by lush nature, the area boasts breathtaking sceneries that change with every season. The cherry blossoms in spring and the autumn foliage are particularly remarkable. Especially the autumn foliage is recognized as one of the top spots in the prefecture. From early to mid-November, during the peak season, the place bustles with photographers and visitors.