Horaiji Temple

Horaiji Temple in Shinshiro, Aichi Prefecture sits atop a mountain reached by climbing 1,425 stone steps through old-growth cedar forest. The ascent takes about 40 minutes at a comfortable pace and passes under trees large enough that several people could join hands around their bases. The main hall at the summit has a simple, weathered quality, and the views from the top terrace look out over the Toei valley and the hills beyond. In late October and November, the cedars and deciduous trees along the approach turn, and the combination of fall color and the forest atmosphere draws visitors from across the Aichi and Shizuoka region.