Mitokusan Sanbutsu-ji Nageiredo
A national treasure temple miraculously built into a cliff face on Mt. Mitoku, offering a challenging pilgrimage and stunning views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant weather for hiking
Mitokusan Sanbutsu-ji Nageiredo
Best Time
Pleasant weather for hiking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A national treasure temple miraculously built into a cliff face on Mt. Mitoku, offering a challenging pilgrimage and stunning views.
"The climb to this temple was the highlight of my trip, a challenging but beautiful spiritual adventure."
👟 Wear Proper Hiking Shoes
Essential for the steep, worn paths. Buy traditional grippy slippers for ¥900 if you forget.
💰 Entry & Slipper Fees
Expect an entry fee of ¥800 plus ¥400 for the temple complex. Slippers are an additional ¥900.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nageiredo (Thrown-in Hall)
Clinging to a cliff face
Japan's most dangerous national treasure, a temple miraculously built into a cave.
Mt. Mitoku Trek
Mountain trails
A challenging yet spiritual hike with stunning views, testing your endurance and rewarding your effort.
Sanbutsu-ji Temple Complex
Base of the mountain
Explore the ancient Buddhist temple grounds before embarking on the ascent to Nageiredo.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Challenging Ascent
Respect the Sacred Site
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Proper Hiking Shoes
Essential for the steep, worn paths. Buy traditional grippy slippers for ¥900 if you forget.
💰 Entry & Slipper Fees
Expect an entry fee of ¥800 plus ¥400 for the temple complex. Slippers are an additional ¥900.
🚫 No Solo Ascents
The climb is technical. Groups of two or more are required for safety and tradition.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The climb can be strenuous. Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Proper Hiking Shoes
Essential for the steep, worn paths. Buy traditional grippy slippers for ¥900 if you forget.
💰 Entry & Slipper Fees
Expect an entry fee of ¥800 plus ¥400 for the temple complex. Slippers are an additional ¥900.
🚫 No Solo Ascents
The climb is technical. Groups of two or more are required for safety and tradition.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The climb can be strenuous. Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas from the mountain are breathtaking. Don't forget your camera!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the unique and awe-inspiring Nageiredo, a national treasure built into a cliff, and the spiritual, challenging hike up Mt. Mitoku. The stunning views and sense of accomplishment are frequently highlighted as trip-defining moments. However, the climb is demanding and requires proper preparation, with some finding the descent particularly technical.
"Very cool shrine set in the mountains, come prepared for climbing, also the stairs are step and worn from the ages"
only ivory
"I loved the mountain climbing but do keep in mind, it’s not an easy claim and going down is even more technical and difficult. The views were beautiful though. I loved it. The whole place and the temple gives a spiritual vibe. This climbing to the top was the highlight of my trip. I enjoyed it very much."
Surina Bura
"A challenging but short hike leads to this beautiful temple. Make sure to wear proper hiking shoes or else you will have to purchase their traditional slippers (with good grip) for 900 yen. And entry fee is 800 yen + 400 yen for the temple complex. Was a fun adventure!"
Viraf Patrawala
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The temple is located in Tottori Prefecture. From major cities like Osaka or Kyoto, you can take a train to Tottori or Kurayoshi Station, followed by a bus or taxi to the temple. The journey can be long, so plan accordingly.
Yes, public buses run to the temple from nearby train stations like Kurayoshi. However, schedules can be infrequent, so check in advance.
The Nageiredo is reached via a challenging hike up Mt. Mitoku. The trail starts from the Sanbutsu-ji Temple complex.
Yes, parking is available at the base of Mt. Mitoku, near the Sanbutsu-ji Temple.
While both are in Tottori Prefecture, they are quite far apart. It's recommended to dedicate separate days or at least a full day for each to fully enjoy them.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee for the temple complex is typically around ¥400, with an additional fee of ¥800 for the ascent to Nageiredo. Traditional slippers for the climb cost an extra ¥900.
The temple grounds are generally open during daylight hours. However, access to Nageiredo may have specific time restrictions, especially during winter. It's best to check the official website or inquire locally.
Advance booking is generally not required for individual visitors, but group visits might need prior arrangement.
Yes, solo ascents are prohibited. You must climb with at least one other person. 
Yes, winter visits are possible, but the trails can be icy and dangerous. Snowfall may also restrict access. Proper gear and caution are essential.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
The hike is considered challenging and technical, with steep, worn paths and some climbing sections. The descent is particularly tricky.
Sturdy hiking shoes with good grip are highly recommended. If you don't have them, you'll need to purchase traditional slippers with grip for ¥900.
It's described as Japan's most dangerous national treasure due to the challenging terrain. While rewarding, it requires careful footing and awareness.
Sanbutsu-ji Temple is a significant site for Shugendo, a form of Japanese mountain asceticism. The Nageiredo is a sacred sanctuary with a long history.
There are some rest stops and historical structures along the trail, such as Jizodo and Chishindō, offering brief respite.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted in the temple grounds and on the trails. However, be respectful of the sacred nature of the site.
The view of Nageiredo clinging to the cliff is iconic. The surrounding mountain scenery also offers stunning photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and around religious sites. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic effects, especially with the mist or snow.
While not explicitly stated, always be mindful of other visitors and the sanctity of the temple when taking photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you have older, adventurous children who are accustomed to hiking, the experience can be rewarding. However, prioritize safety: ensure everyone has appropriate footwear, ample water, and that you adhere to the rule of not climbing solo. The lower temple complex offers a more accessible exploration of the grounds for families. Consider the physical demands before committing to the full ascent.
🧗 Adventurous Trekkers
Be prepared for a strenuous climb, especially the descent. Wearing proper hiking boots is non-negotiable, and purchasing the traditional grippy slippers is a viable alternative if you forget yours. The sense of accomplishment upon reaching the Nageiredo, coupled with the stunning views, makes this a highly memorable adventure.
🧘 Spiritual Seekers
+1The temple's remote location and the dramatic setting of the Nageiredo create a powerful spiritual atmosphere. Many visitors report feeling a profound sense of peace and connection to something ancient and sacred. The challenging ascent can be seen as a metaphor for overcoming worldly attachments to reach enlightenment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Nageiredo
The journey to Nageiredo is as significant as the destination itself. The ascent is a rigorous test of physical and mental fortitude, reflecting the ascetic practices associated with the temple's origins. The trails are steep, often involving climbing over roots and rocks, and require careful navigation. This challenging trek adds to the spiritual experience, as visitors overcome obstacles to reach the sacred hall.
Visiting Nageiredo is not just about seeing a historical building; it's about experiencing a profound connection to nature and spirituality. The temple's remote location and the demanding climb create an atmosphere of reverence and awe. Many visitors describe the experience as deeply spiritual and a highlight of their trip to Japan.
+1Trekking Mt. Mitoku: A Spiritual Journey
Proper footwear is crucial. Many visitors opt for sturdy hiking boots, while others purchase traditional grippy slippers sold at the temple. The cost for these slippers and the temple's entry fee are important considerations for budgeting your visit. Remember, the descent is often considered more challenging than the ascent, requiring careful footing and concentration.
Beyond the physical challenge, the trek is imbued with spiritual significance. The mountain itself is considered sacred, and the journey is seen as a form of purification and devotion. Along the way, you might encounter smaller shrines and resting spots, offering moments for reflection amidst the natural beauty.
+1Seasonal Beauty and Festivals
+1The temple also hosts significant festivals. The 'Hiwatari Shinji' (Fire-Walking Ritual) during the Autumn Grand Festival is a notable event, symbolizing purification and good health. These festivals offer a glimpse into the living traditions and spiritual practices associated with the temple.
+1Visitors should be aware of potential weather-related closures or difficulties, especially during harsh winter conditions. Checking local weather forecasts and temple advisories before your visit is highly recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
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