Temples / Shrines

Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site called “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage routes in the Kii Mountain Range,” Mount Yoshino is an important cultural site as well as a spot of natural beauty. Visitors flock here during the cherry blossom season, but there are many things to see and do during the rest of the year as well. Hanayagura Arguably the best viewpoint on Mount Yoshino is Hanayagura. Although it is a bit of a hike to reach it, you’ll definitely find it worthwhile. In addition to being rewarded with panoramic views of the lower part of the mountain, which is covered in sakura trees and features a picturesque winding road of buildings leading to the town, you can enjoy a cup of tea while you rest. Kinpusenji Temple The most important temple in Yoshino — and, indeed, for the mountain worship of Shugendo as a whole — is Kinpusenji. Make sure to visit the main hall, which is called Zaodo. This stately place is the second largest wooden structure in the country (the largest is Todaiji Temple in Nara). It features massive beams and 1,300-year-old Zao Gongen statues that stand 7 meters tall. These statues represent the past, present,…