Kurama-dera Temple

Kurama-dera is a historic Tendai Buddhist temple located on the sacred slopes of Mount Kurama in northern Kyoto. Famous as the childhood home of Minamoto no Yoshitsune (known in his youth as Ushiwakamaru), the temple is also celebrated for its deep spiritual traditions, legendary tengu stories, and magnificent mountain scenery.

Surrounded by ancient cedar forests, Kurama-dera offers one of Kyoto’s most rewarding temple walks. Visitors experience a unique combination of Buddhist history, mountain worship, and spectacular seasonal landscapes, from fresh spring greenery to vibrant autumn foliage.

History

According to temple tradition, Kurama-dera was founded in 770 by the monk Gantei, a disciple of the renowned Chinese Buddhist master Jianzhen (Ganjin). Guided by a divine vision of Bishamonten, Gantei established a small temple on Mount Kurama to enshrine the guardian deity.

Over time, the temple merged with the worship of Senju Kannon, eventually developing its unique belief in Sonten, a sacred trinity consisting of Bishamonten, Senju Kannon, and Gohomao-son. This distinctive faith views Sonten as the universal life force that sustains all existence.

Kurama-dera is equally famous as the place where the young Minamoto no Yoshitsune spent part of his childhood. According to popular legend, he learned the art of swordsmanship from the mystical tengu that inhabit Mount Kurama. The temple’s famous Tree Root Path and surrounding forests continue to evoke these legendary tales.

Highlights

Main Hall (Kondo)

Visit the temple’s principal hall dedicated to the sacred deity Sonten.

Kongo-sho Stone Circle

Stand on the hexagonal stone platform believed to be a place where universal spiritual energy converges.

Tree Root Path

Walk along the legendary forest trail where giant cedar roots emerge from the ground.

Yuki Shrine

Explore the historic guardian shrine of Mount Kurama, famous for its ancient festivals.

Mountain Scenery

Enjoy magnificent cedar forests, autumn foliage, and the peaceful atmosphere of one of Kyoto’s sacred mountains.

Visit Tips

The most rewarding experience is to continue from Kurama-dera across Mount Kurama to Kifune Shrine. The scenic mountain trail takes about one hour and is considered one of Kyoto’s finest hiking routes.

Because the temple grounds include many stone steps, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Visitors who prefer a shorter climb can take the Kurama Cable Railway to Fumonden before walking to the Main Hall.