Kurama-dera

京都府京都市左京区鞍馬本町1074Open in Google Maps ↗Official site ↗

Deep in the mountains north of Kyoto, founded in 770 and head temple of Kurama-Kokyo. Its unique deity "Sonten" unites Bishamonten, Senju Kannon, and the guardian Mao-son. Legend says the young Ushiwakamaru (Minamoto no Yoshitsune) trained here; tengu folklore adds to the mystique. Main hall open 9:00–16:15; the mountain path from the gate takes ~30 minutes, or take the cable car. Three minutes from Eizan Kurama Station.