Tennenji Temple
temple
天念寺
This ancient wooden temple is literally built into the face of a cliff wall.
Physically embedded into a cliff face, its wooden structure built directly against the rock. Constructed during the Heian period, it was a center for shugendo, the demanding ascetic practice of Buddhist mountain monks. The temple shares space with a Shinto shrine, a coexistence that was once common in the area. In February, the temple holds the Shujo Oni-e festival, where two dancers in oni masks wield flaming torches and scatter sparks over the crowd. Despite their ferocious appearance, the oni here represent reincarnated Buddhas, welcomed to drive away evil and bring good fortune to anyone touched by a spark.
Remove shoes before entering any hall. Look for a shoe rack at the entrance. Carry a plastic bag for your shoes if none is provided.
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