Kyoto, with over 1,000 years of history, is home to countless temples and shrines. Among them, Kurama-dera stands out as one of the city’s most renowned power spots.
Nestled in the serene Kurama Mountain, often called Kyoto’s hidden retreat, Kurama-dera offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city center. Known for its mystical energy, many visitors report feeling refreshed and centered after a visit.
In this article, we’ll introduce the fascinating history and highlights of Kurama-dera. Take a step away from the busy streets and discover a new side of Kyoto!
What Is Kurama-dera?
Kurama-dera is one of Kyoto’s most famous power spots, attracting increasing attention from tourists in recent years.
Although it’s not the easiest place to access, the scenic views of lush nature from the Eizan Railway make the journey part of the experience.
Kurama-dera is also known as the birthplace of the legendary tengu (mythical Japanese mountain spirits). Surrounded by dense forests, the mountain feels as if tengu might truly reside there.
For those who enjoy hiking, a trail connects Kurama-dera to nearby Kifune Shrine, just one stop before Kurama Station on the Eizan Railway. On a sunny day, this hike is highly recommended.
Visitor Information for Kurama-dera
- Address: 1074 Kuramahonmachi, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto
- Map: Google Maps
- Access: A short walk from Eizan Railway’s Kurama Station
- Phone: +81 75-741-2003
- Hours:
- Main Hall: 9:00 AM–4:15 PM
- Cable Car: First trip (uphill) at 8:40 AM, last trip (downhill) at 4:25 PM
- Fees:
- Entrance fee: ¥300
- Cable car fare: ¥200 one way for adults, ¥100 one way for children
- Official Website: Kurama-dera
The History of Kurama-dera
Kurama-dera was founded in 770 by Gantei, a disciple of the famous Chinese monk Ganjin.
While most temples in Kyoto were built after 794, when Japan’s capital moved to Heian-kyo (modern-day Kyoto), Kurama-dera’s history is notably older. According to legend, Gantei was guided to the sacred grounds of Kurama by a vision in a dream and the sudden appearance of a white horse. There, he established the temple’s main hall.
In ancient times, the Kurama Mountain area was said to be plagued by demons. It is believed that Bishamonten, the god of warriors, defeated them. For this reason, Bishamonten is enshrined as the temple’s principal deity. This also relates to Kurama Mountain’s location in Kyoto’s northeastern “kimon” (demon gate), a direction traditionally associated with spiritual protection.
Kurama-dera is also closely tied to the famous samurai Minamoto no Yoshitsune. Many people associate the temple with Yoshitsune, who spent his childhood here. Legend has it that he trained with tengu (mythical mountain spirits) in the forests around Kurama, learning martial arts and tactics from them.
Kurama-dera is filled with fascinating stories and legends that add to its timeless charm. It’s a place where history, spirituality, and folklore come together, offering a glimpse into Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage.
How to Access Kurama-dera
To visit Kurama-dera, you’ll take the Eizan Railway, which departs from Demachiyanagi Station. Here’s a simple guide to getting to Kurama Station and reaching the temple’s main hall.
From JR Kyoto Station to Eizan Railway’s Kurama Station
- Take Kyoto City Bus No. 4 bound for Kamigamo Shrine and get off at Demachiyanagi Station.
- Transfer to the Eizan Railway at Demachiyanagi Station and ride to Kurama Station.
From Kurama Station to the Main Hall by Cable Car
- Walk about 5 minutes from Kurama Station to the cable car boarding point.
- Take the cable car from Sanmon Station to Tahoto Station.
- From Tahoto Station, it’s a 10-minute walk to the main hall.
From Kifune Shrine to Kurama-dera on Foot
From Maoden, it’s another 30-minute walk to Kurama-dera’s main hall.
Walk from Kifune Shrine’s west gate (Saimon) to Maoden (Oku-no-in), which takes about 30 minutes.
Highlights of Kurama-dera
Kurama-dera stands out among Kyoto’s many temples and shrines with its unique and mysterious charm. It’s a must-visit spot for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in exploring Japan’s spiritual power spots.
The temple grounds are vast, stretching from the main gate to the inner sanctuary, and filled with fascinating sites. Here are the highlights you shouldn’t miss:
1. The Hexagram in Front of the Main Hall
Right in front of the main hall, you’ll find the Kongō-do (Golden Hall) and its famous hexagram stone pavement. Known as the Kongō-no-ma (Diamond Seat), it’s considered the most powerful energy spot in Kurama-dera.
The hexagram symbolizes universal energy, and standing here is said to connect you to the cosmos, allowing you to receive divine energy from above. It’s an incredibly spiritual experience!
The triangle at the center of the hexagram represents the temple’s three deities:
- Bishamonten: The god of light.
- Senju Kannon: The goddess of compassion.
- Mao-son: The guardian spirit of vitality.
Be careful not to step on the central triangle—it’s a sacred area!
There’s also a belief that praying on the hexagram can make your wishes come true. Many visitors stand here with their arms open, trying to connect with the universe. It’s such a popular spot that long lines often form, so plan accordingly.
2. Yuki Shrine
Yuki Shrine (Yuki Jinja), located within the grounds of Kurama-dera, is famous for the Kurama Fire Festival held every year on the night of October 22.
The shrine was relocated to its current site in 940, during a time of turmoil caused by natural disasters and uprisings, such as the Taira no Masakado Rebellion and a massive earthquake.
The main hall of Yuki Shrine, designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, was rebuilt by Toyotomi Hideyori. Its unique architectural style, known as the Warihaiden (split worship hall), is a rare feature.
Kurama Fire Festival
The Kurama Fire Festival is one of Kyoto’s three most unusual festivals. A grand procession with blazing torches marches toward Yuki Shrine, accompanied by the rhythmic chants of “Saireya, Sairyo.”
This festival is a must-see, leaving such a strong impression that many visitors return to experience it again.
The shrine also offers adorable omikuj (fortune slips) shaped like tengu, mythical creatures associated with Kurama. These make perfect souvenirs.
Since Yuki Shrine is located along the winding trail that connects the mountain gate to Kurama-dera’s main hall, visitors must hike to reach it, as the cable car bypasses this area. It’s a pleasant walk through nature, adding to the charm of the visit.
3. The Tree Root Path
Deep in the hiking trail connecting Kurama-dera and Kifune Shrine lies the Tree Root Path (Ki no Ne Michi), a fascinating natural wonder where tree roots twist and turn above the ground.
This unusual sight occurs because the rocky bedrock of the area lies close to the surface, preventing the roots from growing deep into the soil. Interestingly, this solid ground is due to Kurama Mountain’s rich deposits of iron ore, as the area was once a mining site.
A Place of Legend
This mysterious path is said to be the training ground where the young Ushiwakamaru, later known as the legendary samurai Minamoto no Yoshitsune, learned martial arts from the tengu (mythical mountain spirits).
The dense forest and dim atmosphere create a mystical setting that truly feels like a place where tengu might appear.
For fans of Japanese history and folklore, the Tree Root Path is a must-visit spot that brings ancient legends to life.
Charms and Goshuin at Kurama-dera
The principal deity of Kurama-dera is known as Sonten.
Sonten represents the union of three powerful figures: Senju Kannon (Thousand-Armed Kannon), Bishamonten (Vaisravana), and Goho Maoson (Defender King of the Dharma). This unique trinity symbolizes the life force and cosmic energy that creates and sustains all living things in the universe.
Kurama-dera is a place filled with this profound spiritual energy.
If you’re visiting the temple, you’ll surely want to take some of this energy home with you. Let’s explore the charms (omamori) and temple stamps (goshuin) you can get at Kurama-dera to carry its blessings with you.
1. Charms
One charm you shouldn’t miss at Kurama-dera is the Fukutora charm, featuring two adorable tigers. One tiger has its mouth open (“Ah”), and the other has it closed (“Un”), representing the sacred sounds of the universe (A-un).
The tiger is a divine messenger of Bishamonten, one of the temple’s principal deities, and holds a deep connection to Kurama-dera. Instead of the usual guardian dogs (komainu), you’ll find guardian tigers (komatora) standing at the temple gates, such as the Niomon Gate and in front of the Main Hall.
The Fukutora charm is believed to bring good fortune and drive away misfortune.
Although it’s a bit larger than typical charms and might not be suitable as a keychain, it’s perfect for placing on a home altar or in a special place for protection and blessings.
2. Goshuin (Temple Stamp)
Kurama-dera offers a single type of goshuin (temple stamp), which features the powerful characters for Sonten written boldly in the center. This stamp carries a strong sense of presence and spiritual energy.
You can receive this goshuin at the reception inside the Main Hall (Kon-do) for just 300 yen.
Kurama-dera also sells its original goshuincho (stamp book) for 2,000 yen. The cover is made of white fabric and features a simple yet elegant design with a chrysanthemum motif, the crest of Kurama-dera, viewed from the side.
If you’re new to collecting goshuin, starting with Kurama-dera’s stamp and goshuincho is a great idea. It’s the perfect way to begin your spiritual journey!
Must-Visit Spots Near Kurama-dera
Since Kurama-dera is located away from Kyoto’s busy downtown area, it’s best to set aside at least half a day for your visit. To make the most of your trip, consider exploring nearby attractions as well.
The Kurama area is surrounded by nature and offers various relaxing spots, making it the perfect destination to refresh your mind and body. Here are some recommended places to visit near Kurama-dera:
1. Kifune Shrine
Before reaching Kurama Station on the Eizan Electric Railway, you’ll find Kifune Shrine. A hiking trail connects Kifune Shrine and Kurama-dera, making this combination a classic sightseeing route.
Kifune Shrine is famous for its picturesque red lanterns lining the stone steps, a scene you’ve likely seen in photos or travel guides.
Recently, the shrine’s unique mizu-ura mikuji (water fortune slips) have gained popularity. When placed in water, the fortune-telling messages appear, making it a hit among young women and a must-visit Kyoto attraction.
Like Kurama-dera, Kifune Shrine is considered one of Kyoto’s top power spots. The Main Shrine honors a deity of water, while the Rear Shrine enshrines a god of matchmaking. The shrine is renowned for blessings in luck, relationships, and wish fulfillment.
Kifune Shrine is also known as the birthplace of ema (wooden prayer plaques). Don’t forget to write your wishes on an ema when you visit!
Kifune Shrine Visitor Information
- Address: 180 Kurama Kibune-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto
- Map: Google Maps
- Access: From Eizan Electric Railway’s Kifune-guchi Station, take Kyoto Bus No. 33 to the “Kifune” stop; the shrine is a short walk from there.
- Phone: 075-741-2016
- Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Official Website: Kifune Shrine
2. Yoshuji
Right next to the gate of Kurama-dera, you’ll find Yoshuji, a charming restaurant offering Kyoto-style shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine) and soba noodles.
The restaurant’s traditional folk-art ambiance adds to its appeal. Every dish is served on handpicked folk-art tableware from across Japan, creating a unique dining experience.
At Yoshuji, try the shojin ryori crafted by the owner, who is a former monk of Kurama-dera. You can choose from three sets: Hana (Flower), Kuramayama (Mount Kurama), and Tsuki (Moon). The Kuramayama Shojin Zen set includes seasonal rice, simmered vegetables, shira-ae (mashed tofu salad), sesame tofu, three-color dengaku skewers, tororo soba (grated yam soba), dessert, and pickles.
For a lighter treat, Yoshuji also offers sweets like amazake (sweet fermented rice drink) and warabi mochi (bracken starch jelly), making it a great spot for a quick break.
Relax and enjoy dishes that highlight the natural flavors of high-quality ingredients, served in carefully chosen tableware.
Yoshuji Visitor Information
- Address: 1074-2 Kuramahonmachi, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto
- Map: Google Maps
- Access: A short walk from Eizan Electric Railway’s Kurama Station
- Phone: 075-741-2848
- Closed: Tuesdays
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Official Website: Yoshuji
This article introduced the history of Kurama-dera, its must-see spots, and nearby attractions.
Kurama-dera has steep mountain paths and unpaved trails, so we recommend wearing comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes for your visit.
Surrounded by nature, Kurama-dera offers a peaceful escape from the noise of everyday life. Why not immerse yourself in the cosmic energy of the temple and refresh both your body and mind?
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