Kurama-dera Temple

鞍馬寺

4.6Est. 90Kyoto, Kansai

Overview

Mountain temple where tengu spirits trained young warriors, reached by a root-tangled forest trail.

A mountain temple north of Kyoto said to be where the tengu mountain spirits taught swordsmanship to the young warrior Minamoto no Yoshitsune. The steep, root-covered trail through primeval forest to the main hall takes 30 minutes and passes through a gateway marked 'The Spiritual Power of the Universe.' A cable car offers an easier ascent.

Local tips

Hike from Kurama to Kibune (not reverse) for a downhill finish at the riverside restaurants. The onsen at the base is excellent.

Practical info

Japanese name: 鞍馬寺
Nearest station: Kurama Station (10 min walk)
Payment: Cash only
Reservations: not required

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