Takao, which has long been considered a sacred mountain for Shugendo (mountain asceticism).
Legend has it that tengu (heavenly goblins) have existed on Mt.
In 744, Gyoki, by order of Emperor Shomu, opened the temple (the first ascent of the mountain) and founded Takao Yakuoin.
When visitors pass through the Yakuoin temple gate, they are greeted by two tengu (heavenly goblins).
Aizenmyoo Hall, which offers blessings for marriage, and Yakuoin’s eight great dragon king halls, which offer blessings to increase one’s financial fortune, are scattered throughout the temple.
Giant cedar trees, said to be 700 or 1,000 years old, grow around the temple grounds.
Cable car: Takao Station or Echo Lift: Yamagami Station, approx. 30 min. walk
To get to the cable car (Echo Lift) stop connecting Takao Station (Yamagami Station), get off at Takaoyamaguchi Station on the Keio Line and walk about 3 minutes.