Takaosan Yakuōin Yukiji Temple — Attraction in Tokyo

Yakuoin Temple [高尾山藥王院] of Takao Mountain, initially built in 744 AD, worships the Medicine God, although current major worship halls were built in 1729 and 1753 and were renovated and expanded a few times in 18th and 19th centuries.

While visitors of Yakuoin Temple may be impressed at Temple complex, but mountain road from cable car station of Yakuoin Temple to the Temple itself is an ultimate tour attraction because it has many maple leaves trees and other types of trees, especially cedar trees. Temple does have cedar Tree project to increase planting cedar trees after evidence indicates that its initially planted cedar trees did survive the hurricane and became the windbreak for the temple and mountain road.

Both Yakuoin Temple and Takao Mountain are popular spots for religious worshippers and non-religious visitors and mountain hikers and climbers. Thus, rail transportations and cable trains/cars to the Takao Mountain can be long waiting in weekends, holidays, and in religious days. To save time for waiting for ticket purchase for cable trains/cars, it is better for visitors to buy discounted packaged tickets for Keio Rail Tickets and Cable Trains/Cars, and visitors can save time for waiting for ticket purchase. However, in weekends and holidays, almost every spot, including toilets, ice cream shops, and temple's service counters, have long lines and require wait time of 20 minutes or longer.

While Temple does not disallow visitors to bring their pets to the Temple, it is probably safer for visitors not to bring their pets to visit the Temple when there are huge crowds of visitors. Pets should not feel pressure for...

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My visit to Takaosan Yakuōin Yukiji Temple was truly memorable, combining spirituality with adventure amidst the stunning natural beauty of Mount Takao. The trekking experience leading up to the temple was invigorating, offering breathtaking views of lush forests and serene landscapes along the way. The well-marked trails and gentle slopes made the ascent enjoyable for adventurers of all levels.

Upon reaching the temple, I was greeted by a sense of tranquility and reverence. The ancient architecture and serene surroundings provided a serene sanctuary for reflection and meditation. The temple's history and cultural significance added depth to the experience, making it more than just a stop along the trail.

After exploring the temple grounds, I opted for the ropeway descent, which offered a thrilling aerial perspective of the mountain and surrounding area. The panoramic views were simply spectacular, making the descent both exhilarating and memorable.

While my experience was nearly flawless, I deducted one star due to the occasional crowds and wait times, particularly during peak seasons. Despite this minor inconvenience, Takaosan Yakuōin Yukiji Temple remains a must-visit destination for nature lovers, spiritual seekers, and adventure...

My photos suck compared to pro social media influencers, so don't focus too on the shoots. This is a review of both the Mountain and the temples. The mountain is about 600m high. You can easily burn at least 500 calories tracking on this 2.6km+ trail. If you don't use the non-free cable rail of course. Probably the least busiest and most quietist up here. When you reach the peak, you get to see other mountains and an overview of Tokyo city from the horizon. They even have binoculars you pay 100 yen to use but your phone might zoom in better these days. Food and drinks await half way for refreshments and laventries. And theres also an observatory up ahead too. Almost forgot about the Shinto Buddhist temples that are part of Japan's heritage now. You can trail through it to enjoy the nice healing spiritual energies as you journey to reach the top. Note they do close at 4pm though so you need to go around to reach the top. Don't stay out too late though or else it gets too dark and mosquitoes will bite you (some parts of the trail are not lit). So hike carefully as it can also be slippery at inclinations...