The Enchantment of Yamadera

Listed as a national historic site, Yamadera (also known as Risshakuji) was founded in 860 AD. In 1689, the poet Matsuo Basho, wrote a famous haiku here. From the entrance, there is a trek up 1,015 steps to the mountain top. Along the way, it is hoped that one can achieve clarity in thinking. The shrines and most of the statues have been remarkably preserved and if you unleash your imagination, you can take a journey back in time. There are many beautiful spots to admire at Yamadera - some almost hidden amongst trees and easy to miss, others so magnificent they cannot be missed.