A power spot where the history of Shugendo and nature blend together, located atop Mount Kongo.
Mount Kongo Tenpo-rinji Temple is a temple of the Shingon-shu Daigo-ha sect located in Gose, Nara Prefecture. Legend says it was founded in 665 by En no Ozunu (Yakougi), the founder of Shugendo. Mount Kongo has long been revered as a sacred mountain, and En no Ozunu is said to have practiced rigorous asceticism there. Nestled atop Mount Kongo, the temple's serene atmosphere, surrounded by majestic nature, has drawn countless yamabushi as a place of training for centuries. Access to Mount Kongo Tenpo-rinji Temple is via the Nankai Koya Line to Kawachinagano Station, followed by a Nankai bus to "Kongosan Ropeway-mae," or via the Kintetsu Nagano Line to Tondabayashi Station and then a Kongo bus to "Chihaya Ropeway-mae." In winter, there is heavy snowfall, so winter mountaineering gear is essential. The temple's history can be felt along the approach from the base to the summit of Mount Kongo. Rows of cedar trees line both sides of the path, leading you into a world of tranquility. The temple grounds at the summit feature many highlights, including the Fudo-do Hall (where En no Ozunu is said to have encountered Fudo Myoo), and the impressive Ichinotorii Gate, a symbolic landmark of Mount Kongo. Fudo-do Hall is said to be the place where En no Ozunu encountered the Fudo Myoo (Acala) during his ascetic practices. A statue of Fudo Myoo is enshrined inside, attracting many worshippers. Ichinotorii Gate is a stately torii gate marking the entrance to Mount Kongo. Passing through this gate leads you into the spiritually charged atmosphere of the sacred mountain. Known as a power spot, Tenpo-rinji Temple draws many visitors. Many find solace in the energy of Mount Kongo and the rigorous ascetic practices of En no Ozunu. Why not refresh your mind and body, and relieve daily stress in the serene, majestic natural setting?