Jingoji Temple

Jingoji Temple stands halfway up Mount Takao, belonging to the Shingon sect of Buddhism. Legend says its founding dates to 781 via Wake no Kiyomaro, the same name that contributed to construction of the Heian capital. From 809, the temple was inhabited by the monk Kukai (Kobo Daishi) for 14 years. Step inside to find the Daishido hall as reconstructed by Kukai, recognized today as a designated Important Cultural Property. The hall keeps a wooden-carved statue of Kobo Daishi (also an Important Cultural Property), and remains open to the public every year in early November.

The main statue of Yakushi Nyorai (the Buddha of Healing) is designated as a National Treasure and is made using the "Shiraki" technique, applying only vermilion to the lips and ink to the eyebrows and eyes. The temple also possesses numerous temple treasures dating from the early Heian period to the early Kamakura period. One of its most famous treasures is the National Treasure designated Bonsho (temple bell), considered one of Japan's Three Great Temple Bells.

From the innermost part of the temple grounds, you can enjoy the magnificent view of the Kinunkei Valley. Visitors can also enjoy the tradition of "Kawarake-nage," throwing unglazed pottery called "kawarake" into the valley for purification.