Horaiji Temple & Mt. Horaiji - Image 1
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Horaiji Temple and Mount Horaiji

4.3
·260 reviews·Shinshiro, Japan

Ascend over 1,000 ancient steps to reach a historic temple atop Mount Horaiji, especially stunning during autumn.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Autumn mornings

Vibrant foliage, pleasant climb

CrowdMedium
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Horaiji Temple & Mt. Horaiji - Image 1

Horaiji Temple and Mount Horaiji

Best Time

Autumn mornings

Vibrant foliage, pleasant climb

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ascend over 1,000 ancient steps to reach a historic temple atop Mount Horaiji, especially stunning during autumn.

4.3
(260 reviews)

"Awesome during the momiji autumn season, with a rewarding climb up over a thousand stone steps."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The climb involves over 1,000 stone steps. Comfortable, supportive footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

Stay hydrated during your ascent. There are limited facilities on the trail, so carry enough water for the entire climb.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Thousand Stone Steps

The Thousand Stone Steps

Ascend over 1,000 ancient stone steps, a rewarding journey to the temple above.

Horaiji Temple

Horaiji Temple

Summit of Mount Horaiji

Discover this historic temple nestled atop the mountain, offering a serene spiritual experience.

Mount Horaiji Autumn Foliage

Mount Horaiji Autumn Foliage

Witness the breathtaking beauty of Mount Horaiji ablaze with vibrant autumn colors.

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Planning Your Visit

Conquer the Thousand Steps

Be prepared for a significant climb! Many visitors report ascending over a thousand stone steps to reach the temple, which can take about an hour from the base. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water.

Autumn's Fiery Spectacle

If you're planning a visit, consider the autumn season. The mountain is described as looking 'awesome' during momiji (autumn foliage), offering a particularly beautiful experience.

Best Times

When
Autumn mornings
Why
Vibrant foliage, pleasant climb
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds on trails
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Mystical Mountain of Horaiji Temple There is something truly mystical about the atmosphere around the holy mountain of Horaiji. The whole mountain is tranquil, with unspoiled ancient nature, it reeks of spiritualism and history, and of long forgotten ways. Mt. Horaiji and its temple are considered power spots, -places of great spiritual and natural powers. Located 695m above sea level on the r...
@tintinfrancisco1
22 likes • 437 views

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The climb involves over 1,000 stone steps. Comfortable, supportive footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike. Reddit

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

Stay hydrated during your ascent. There are limited facilities on the trail, so carry enough water for the entire climb. Reddit

秋の鳳来寺付近の展望台や下道には紅葉が楽しめれます♪🍁*こちらのリールは昨年度の紅葉です* 愛知県新城市の有名紅葉スポットでもあるのです♪ 閉校した小学校(旧門谷小学校)辺りの紅葉は特に綺麗です! 音為川(おとなすがわ)の小路から眺めるリフレクション紅葉風景は圧巻♪ さらに…愛知県新城市鳳来寺山は周回コースになっており、特に「鷹打場」がかなり絶景♪ このスポットはちょうど木々が無くて、岩場の塊みたいな吹き抜けになっている♪そして…4人がけぐらいの石の椅子とテーブルがあるので、休憩箇所にも最適♪ 【鳳来寺山】 *無料駐車場から行く場合* 📍「鳳来寺山表参道」の駐車場 →新城市門谷木戸2−3 ・駐車場から周回コースを1周して戻るとおおよそ3時間程 *有料駐車場から行く場合* 1台500円~600円程(昨年度情報) 📍「鳳来寺山パークウェイ」の駐車場 →新城市門谷鳳来寺7−27 ・駐車場から周回...
@higasimikawa.style
261 likes • 14.9K views
1300段の階段が過酷だった😨 鳳来寺山鳳来寺 愛知県新城市のおすすめスポット!
@yuya321h
92 likes • 4.7K views

🍁 Visit in Autumn

The mountain is especially stunning during autumn when the foliage is at its peak. Reddit

🚗 Parking Available

A car park is available, making it convenient for those driving to the mountain base. Reddit

Munggah gunung seng model trundakan koyo ngene mending ojo gowo barang abot, nyesel mengko😅 #shinshiro #mt.horaiji #temanggung #kenshuseijapan🇮🇩🇯🇵🎌 #japan
@wafuyua7
11 likes • 257 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The climb involves over 1,000 stone steps. Comfortable, supportive footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike. Reddit

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

Stay hydrated during your ascent. There are limited facilities on the trail, so carry enough water for the entire climb. Reddit

🍁 Visit in Autumn

The mountain is especially stunning during autumn when the foliage is at its peak. Reddit

🚗 Parking Available

A car park is available, making it convenient for those driving to the mountain base. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(260 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Horaiji Temple and Mount Horaiji for its beautiful scenery, especially during autumn, and the rewarding challenge of climbing over a thousand stone steps. The historic temple at the summit is a significant draw, offering a peaceful spiritual experience after the strenuous hike. Some find the climb demanding but ultimately worth the effort for the views and atmosphere.

"Nice temple for hiking"

Mahfudhoh Rihanul Milah

"Started from the very bottom of the mountain and it took me an hour to reach this spot going up over one thousand stone-steps."

En Shimizu

"Beautiful place. It looks awesome during the momiji autumn season."

Sanzid H

What People Like

Challenging stone step climb
Beautiful autumn foliage
Historic temple

What People Dislike

Strenuous climb for some

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most convenient way to reach Mount Horaiji is by car, as there is a car park available at the base. Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus schedules in advance is recommended if you're not driving.

Yes, a car park is available at the base of Mount Horaiji, making it accessible for visitors arriving by private vehicle. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Mount Horaiji and its hiking trails is generally free. The temple itself may have specific visiting hours or donation suggestions.

Specific opening hours for Horaiji Temple can vary. It's advisable to check the official temple website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

From the very bottom, reaching the temple can take approximately one hour, involving climbing over a thousand stone steps. Reddit

The hike is considered moderately difficult due to the extensive number of stone steps. It requires good physical condition and stamina. Reddit

At the summit, you'll find the historic Horaiji Temple, along with potentially scenic views of the surrounding landscape. Reddit

Yes, Mount Horaiji is a popular destination for hiking, particularly for those who enjoy a challenging climb with a rewarding destination. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The stone steps leading up to the temple offer dramatic perspectives. The temple grounds themselves, especially during autumn, provide beautiful photographic opportunities.

Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the scenery. Autumn offers vibrant colors, making it a prime time for photographers. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

💪 Fitness Enthusiasts

For those who love a good workout, the thousand stone steps of Mount Horaiji offer a fantastic challenge. The climb is a significant physical test, so come prepared with stamina and good hiking shoes. The rewarding views and the historic temple at the summit make the effort worthwhile. Reddit

Consider this hike as a great way to combine your love for fitness with cultural exploration. The journey itself is as much a part of the experience as the destination.

📸 Photographers

Mount Horaiji and its temple offer numerous photographic opportunities, especially during autumn. Capture the dramatic ascent up the stone steps or the serene beauty of the temple grounds amidst vibrant foliage. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon light can create stunning shots. The contrast between the ancient temple architecture and the natural landscape is a photographer's dream.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Ascent: A Journey of Steps

The defining feature of visiting Horaiji Temple is the climb up Mount Horaiji. Visitors consistently mention the challenge and reward of ascending over a thousand stone steps. This isn't a casual stroll; it's a significant physical undertaking that can take around an hour from the mountain's base. The steps are ancient and well-maintained, but their sheer number and the incline demand a good level of fitness. Make sure to wear appropriate footwear and carry water to stay comfortable throughout the ascent. Reddit

While the climb is demanding, the experience is often described as beautiful and rewarding. The journey through the mountain's natural landscape, culminating in the arrival at the historic temple, is a key part of the appeal. Some visitors even start their journey from the very bottom, embracing the full challenge. Reddit

Seasonal Beauty: Autumn's Embrace

Mount Horaiji is particularly renowned for its stunning beauty during the autumn season. Reviewers highlight that the mountain 'looks awesome during the momiji autumn season,' referring to the vibrant red and orange hues of the maple leaves. This makes autumn a prime time for visitors seeking picturesque scenery and a visually spectacular hiking experience. Reddit

Planning a visit during the fall months means you'll likely encounter a more colorful landscape, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the climb and the temple visit. The crisp autumn air also makes the physical exertion of the climb more pleasant. If you're aiming for the most visually striking experience, consider timing your visit for peak fall foliage.

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