Yoshinoyama : the Roots of Shugendō Spirituality

Nara Prefecture , Japan

Yoshinoyama : the Roots of Shugendō Spirituality

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About this experience

Immerse yourself into the Roots of Shugendō, a unique spiritual tradition born in the sacred mountains of Yoshino 1,300 years ago, that weaves together Shinto, Buddhism, and mountain worship.

Visit significant Shugendō sites with a private local guide, and meet a Buddhist priest and Shugendō practitioner, whose insights reveal the discipline, humility, and wisdom at the heart of this ascetic path. Your one-day experience culminates with an intimate encounter with the rich iconography of Esoteric Buddhism at a secluded Shugendo temple in Yoshino Town.

This Full-Day private experience offers a rare opportunity to explore the deep cultural and spiritual roots of the Shugendō tradition, which is still vibrantly alive in Yoshinoyama today.

Available options

Standard rate Flexible Departure

What's included

Private Experience at Shugendo Temple

Entrance fees

Lunch

cable car fee

Yoshino-kuzu sweets

Private Guide

Detailed itinerary

Meet your private guide at Yoshino Station before ascending to Yoshinoyama via the iconic Yoshino Ropeway, one of Japan’s most historic and distinctive aerial lift systems. Renowned for its preserved structure and mechanical design, it is recognized as Japan’s oldest ropeway still in operation.

Discover, together with your private guide, the majesty of Kinpusen-ji Temple, the spiritual heart of the Yoshino Shugendō mountain tradition. Founded in the 7th century by En no Gyōja, the founder of Shugendō, the temple is renowned for enshrining the powerful Zaō Gongen, a unique deity believed to bestow wisdom, courage, and protection upon Shugendō ascetics before they ascend the Yoshino Mountains to undertake rigorous spiritual training.

Your private knowledgeable guide will introduce you to the key Shugendō sites of Yoshino and explain their enduring importance to mountain asceticism today. Along the way, you will also visit local shops that provide essential items for Shugendō practitioners, before taking a break to enjoy a traditional Yoshinoyama lunch prepared with fresh local ingredients.

Discover the hidden connection between this revered Shinto shrine and the Shugendō tradition. Originally founded in the 8th century, the site was formerly known as Yoshimizu-in, a Buddhist temple closely affiliated with Kinpusen-ji and the Shugendō tradition. As a pilgrimage base, Yoshimizu-in long served as a ritual and lodging place for ascetics and elite pilgrims traveling through Yoshino as part of the sacred pilgrimage routes of the Kii Peninsula.

Founded in 671, Sakuramotobō Temple is one of the oldest and most important centers of Ōmine Shugendō. Throughout the year, its priests oversee the training of hundreds of yamabushi, leading mountain pilgrimages, meditation retreats, and other ascetic practices. Participants will have the opportunity to meet a Buddhist priest and Shugendō practitioner from Sakuramotobō—an exceptional chance to gain firsthand insight into the discipline, humility, and wisdom of Shugendō’s mountain ascetics.

Engage in a mindful iconographic practice that bridges Esoteric Buddhism and the spiritual world of Shugendō deities. This quiet, contemplative form of meditation cultivates calm focus and mindfulness, and has long been practiced by monks and lay practitioners alike to deepen awareness and cultivate spiritual merit.

Local Kuzu Sweets shop.If the shop is closed, we will switch to another kuzu sweets shop.

Savor a lunch typical of Yoshino Town made with fresh local ingredients.If the restaurant is closed, we will substitute it with a local restaurant.

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Our guide will be waiting in front of the Yoshino Town Tourist Information Center, just outside Yoshino Station.

About Nara Prefecture

Nara Prefecture, located in the Kansai region of Japan, is renowned for its rich history and cultural heritage. As the first permanent capital of Japan, it boasts numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the famous Nara Park with its friendly deer and the iconic Todai-ji Temple housing the Great Buddha.

Top Attractions

Todai-ji Temple

Todai-ji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most famous temples. It houses the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), a massive bronze statue of Buddha that is a symbol of Nara.

Historical/Religious 1.5 to 2 hours ¥600

Nara Park

Nara Park is famous for its friendly wild deer, which are considered messengers of the Shinto gods. The park is a beautiful green space with scenic walking paths and historic temples.

Nature/Cultural 1 to 2 hours Free (¥200 for deer crackers)

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Kasuga Taisha is a renowned Shinto shrine with a history dating back to 768 AD. It is famous for its lanterns, which are donated by worshippers and hang from the shrine's buildings.

Religious/Cultural 1 to 1.5 hours Free (¥500 for the Treasure Museum)

Nara National Museum

The Nara National Museum houses a vast collection of Buddhist art and artifacts, providing insight into Japan's religious and cultural history.

Museum/Cultural 1 to 1.5 hours ¥700

Isuien Garden

Isuien Garden is a beautiful traditional Japanese garden with a history dating back to the Edo period. It offers stunning views of Mount Wakakusa and the surrounding city.

Nature/Cultural 30 minutes to 1 hour ¥310

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kakinoha-zushi

Sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, a traditional Nara delicacy with a unique flavor and aroma

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish and rice, may contain allergens

Miso-ni

A comforting miso-based soup with tofu, vegetables, and sometimes meat, reflecting Nara's Buddhist culinary traditions

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian options available, may contain soy

Kudzu-mochi

A traditional Japanese sweet made from kudzu starch, often served with kinako (roasted soybean flour) and kuromitsu (brown sugar syrup)

Dessert Vegetarian, may contain gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking in Mount Yoshino Cycling around Nara Park Tea ceremony at a traditional tea house Strolling through Isuien Garden Visiting historic temples and shrines Participating in a traditional craft workshop Visiting hot springs (onsen) in nearby areas Enjoying winter illuminations at temples

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (October to November)

Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn offers stunning fall foliage. These seasons provide comfortable weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Expect large crowds and higher prices for accommodations.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Nara is a very safe destination with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Use reputable tour guides and vendors

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 50 km from Nara city center
Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 35 km from Nara city center

By train

Nara Station, Kintetsu Nara Station

By bus

Nara Station Bus Terminal, Kintetsu Nara Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The Nara City Loop Bus is a convenient and affordable way to get around. Buses are frequent and easy to use, with English announcements and signage.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Nara Park and Todai-ji Area Nakatanicho Sanjo Dori

Day trips

Asuka Village

15 km from Nara • Half day to full day

Asuka Village is a historic site with ancient tombs, temples, and ruins, offering a glimpse into Japan's ancient past. It is known as the birthplace of Japanese civilization and the first permanent capital of Japan.

Mount Yoshino

25 km from Nara • Full day

Mount Yoshino is famous for its stunning cherry blossoms in the spring and beautiful autumn foliage. It is also a sacred site with numerous temples and shrines, including the famous Kinpusen-ji Temple.

Osaka

40 km from Nara • Full day

Osaka is a vibrant city with a mix of modern attractions, historic sites, and delicious street food. It offers a diverse range of experiences, from shopping and dining to cultural and historical exploration.

Festivals

Nara Tokae Shogyo Festival • April 1st Nara Matsuri • October (second weekend) Shinji-kawase Festival • July 14th-15th

Pro tips

Visit Todai-ji Temple early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere
Buy deer crackers (shika senbei) to feed the friendly deer in Nara Park, but be cautious and follow the park's guidelines
Consider purchasing a Kintetsu Railway Pass for unlimited travel on Kintetsu lines, which can be cost-effective for tourists
Explore Nara-machi, the old town, for a glimpse into traditional Japanese architecture and local crafts
Try kakinoha-zushi, a unique Nara delicacy made with sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves