Reminisce about ancient times at a mountain temple where Matsuo Basho also visited

"The sound of cicadas that penetrates the quietness and rocks." This haiku, famous for Matsuo Basho's ''Oku no Hosomichi'', was composed during a visit to Mt. Yamadera is an ancient temple of the Tendai sect, said to have been founded by Jikaku Daishi Ennin in 860, and is one of Tohoku's representative sacred mountains. The entire mountain is a temple, and there are over 30 temples and pagodas of various sizes scattered within the precincts of approximately 330,000 tsubo.

When you visit, the first thing you should do is visit the ''Konpon Chudo'' in front. It is the oldest beech building in Japan and is a nationally designated important cultural property. It is said that your wish will come true if you stroke the Hotei statue that sits at the entrance.

It is about a 5 minute walk from Yamadera Station on the JR Senzan Line to the entrance to the shrine. No climbing equipment is required, but we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.

Speaking of Yamadera, it is famous for the 1015 stone steps leading from the Sanmon gate. An approach path is built along nature to the Okunoin and Godaido temples near the summit, and it is said that earthly desires will disappear as you climb the stone steps. There are benches and rest areas along the way, so go up at a comfortable pace.

A spectacular view awaits you at the top. Godaido Hall, which juts out from the cliff, offers a panoramic view of the lush green countryside. The cicadas that can be noisy in the city are sure to make wonderful background music here. Immerse yourself in the spectacular scenery while thinking about a poem written by Basho.