Bujō-ji is a shugendo (mountain asceticism) temple that is also called ‘the Northern Omine’, a reference to Mt Omine-san in Nara Prefecture, which is a centre for Japan’s yamabushi (mountain mystics). It’s a 430-step climb to the main hall.
First, you surrender your bags and cameras, and get a special pilgrim’s bag and staff, plus a printout of a mantra to chant as you climb. Only then can you pass through the gate and climb to the hall. Just before the hall, ring the bell, focus your thoughts and then climb to the veranda to soak up the views.
