You might have read about Japanese Yokai and heard stories about its myths and legends. And while it might have seemed impossible to experience in real life, there is a certain place not far from Tokyo where you can walk into world of myths and legends.

Yakuo In temple sitting atop the beautiful Mount Takao, is one of the most unique temples in Tokyo (and quite an underrated one) dedicated to the Tengus (demon-like deities of Japanese folklore) who is believed to guard the sacred mountain.

This dedication to the Tengus is made evident with the Yokai’s various statues scattered across the temple grounds and halls, making this Buddhist temple in Tokyo, a gateway to a realm where myth and reality intertwine.

Yakuo In temple being shrouded in history, ancient myths and legends, makes it one of the best temples in Japan and a must-visit place for Japanophiles and fans of everything that is mythical.

You can reach the temple and Mt Takao via the trains or if you prefer an easier mode of transport, you can charter a private car and driver to take you there.

A 1200-Year-Old Temple

Don’t let the modern fixes and flawless structure fool you. Despite its well-maintained appearance, Yakuo-In temple has been a witness to history for 1200 years and this is evident in its age-old gates and its location high up on Mt Takao.

Founded in the early Heian period (794-1185), the temple was initially taken care of by the imperial court and it’s establishment marked a pivotal moment in the spread of Buddhism and Tendai teachings across Japan.

Throughout the centuries, Yakuo-in Temple underwent periods of prosperity and decline, mirroring the ebb and flow of political power and social upheaval. It weathered the tumultuous Sengoku period (15th-16th centuries), a time of civil war and uncertainty, when many temples faced destruction. However, Yakuo-in’s remote location on Mount Takao afforded it some protection, allowing it to survive and even thrive as a place of refuge for those seeking solace amidst the chaos.

During the Edo period (1603-1868), Yakuo-in Temple experienced a resurgence in popularity, supported by the patronage of samurai clans and wealthy merchants. Pilgrimages to the temple became a popular spiritual practice, as devotees sought blessings from Yakushi Nyorai (Buddha of headling) and sought relief from ailments and misfortune. The temple’s association with healing and protection further solidified its reputation as a sacred site of pilgrimage.

In the modern era, Yakuo-in Temple continues to attract locals and tourists who sets foot in the Land of the Rising Sun, drawn not only by its religious significance but also by the mountain’s surrounding beauty and the temple’s cultural heritage.

The Place for Yokai (Demon-Like Spirits)

What makes Yakuo-In so unique from all other temples in Tokyo is its relation to Tengu, which are demons that wade off evil and stays for good. The temple’s relation to the Tengu is very evident as two of these dieties stands guard at the temple’s entrance.

More are found inside the temple grounds in various poses. The Main Hall of the temple also have faces of the Tengu carved onto its walls, one with a beak and the other with a long nose.

Tengu are often depicted as bird-like beings with human-like features, possessing supernatural powers and often serving as protectors of the mountains and forests. In Japanese folklore, Mount Takao is believed to be inhabited by Tengu, who are revered as guardians and associated with mountain asceticism.

Over time, Yakuo-in Temple became intertwined with the Tengu legend with stories emerging of encounters between monks and these enigmatic beings. According to local folklore, the Tengu were believed to dwell in the dense forests surrounding the temple, occasionally appearing to test the resolve and faith of those who ventured into their domain.

Thanks to its strong presence, Yakuo-In is one of the best places to see Yokai in Japan for the fans of mythical folklore, giving this place it’s nickname, the “Tengu Temple”.

The Sounds of Goma

One of the most enchanting experiences at Yakuo-in Temple is hearing the rhythmic drumming along with voices of prayer coming from the Main Hall that echoes through the temple in certain intervals. These drumming sounds known as Goma, a traditional Buddhist ceremony, is a ritual accompanied by the chanting of sutras and the burning of wood sticks into the small fire pit inside the main hall. Outside the hall, the temple ground is filled with aromatic scents of burning incense sticks, creating an atmosphere that is divine.

The Goma can be heard few times a day and if you’re lucky you will be able to witness the devotees joining in for prayer, burning wooden incense and chanting prayers and partaking in a tradition that is as old as time. It’s one of the best ways to experience the culture of Japan in its most original form.

A Large Complex of Ancient Pagodas and Halls

Stretching across 8.31 acres of land, Yakuo In temple is vast. No matter what direction you go to, you’ll have plenty to explore throughout its massive domain. And if you’re lucky, you might even see the priests make too and fro between the shrines.

One of the prominent structures at Yakuo In temple is its Hondo Hall (Main Hall) and this is what you’ll see at the entrance. The hall serves as the main place of worship and houses the statue of Izuna Daigongen, the main Tengu deity of Yakuo In, as well as Yakushi Nyorai (the Medicine Buddha). It’s here in the hall that Goma is performed.

Another prominent feature of Yakuo-in Temple is its five-storied pagoda, known as Gojunoto. This pagoda is a symbol of Buddhist cosmology and represents the five elements (earth, water, fire, wind, and space) as well as the five Buddha wisdoms. Each tier of the pagoda is adorned with ornate carvings and architectural details, making it a striking focal point within the temple complex.

Nature’s Beauty

While Yakuo-In temple is gorgeous all year round, it becomes breathtakingly beautiful during the autumn season. The temple becomes covered in red momiji leaves (maple leaves) that Japan is famous for along with a multitude of golden and various levels of crimson leaves.

Due to its surrounding forest, and if you’re lucky, you’ll hear the rustling of the million leaves akin to the sounds of rainfall when the wind graces through its branches. During the autumn season, there is also a special festival held in November to welcome travelers who are on their journey up to the temple and the mountain.

And a Buddhist Lunch

No visit to Yakuo In temple is complete without tasting their traditional Buddhist lunch offered limited to visitors in a given time frame.

The Buddhist lunch, known as shojin ryori, is a taste of traditional Japanese cuisine deeply rooted in Buddhist principles of mindfulness and simplicity. Served in a communal setting, this vegetarian meal blends seasonal ingredients sourced locally and prepared by the hands of the temple devotees.

The lunch is a combination of steamed rice, miso soup, and pickled vegetables, known as tsukemono. Various tofu dishes are given as sides to the whole meal. If you want to try your hands at gulping this nutrient-rich food, you can try making a reservation at 042-661-1115 (Japanese phone number). You might need the help of a Japanese speaker to make this reservation, so try asking your hotel reception to make the booking for you.

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