Shipporyu-ji Temple is a sacred mountain temple hidden deep in the forests of Mount Inunaki, just a short ride from Kansai International Airport. Founded over 1,400 years ago, it is regarded as the spiritual birthplace of Shugendo—a uniquely Japanese syncretic religion that blends Buddhism, mountain worship, and nature reverence. Unlike many urban temples, Shipporyu-ji offers a secluded, almost mystical experience surrounded by waterfalls, mossy stones, and dense greenery. The stone path to the main hall is steep and slippery, but walking this quiet trail in the footsteps of centuries of ascetics adds depth to the visit. With no crowds, no tourist shops, and only the sounds of nature, this is a rare opportunity to connect with Japan’s ancient spiritual roots in a setting that feels untouched by time.

Gyoja no Taki

Tucked within the temple grounds of Shipporyu-ji lies Gyoja-no-Taki, the “Waterfall of the Ascetics,” where practitioners of Shugendo have performed ritual purification for centuries. This sacred waterfall, surrounded by towering trees and thick moss, is not just a beautiful natural feature—it is a living site of spiritual discipline. Even today, ascetics and visitors alike come here to engage in misogi, a traditional water purification rite believed to cleanse the body and spirit. The powerful rush of water and the silence of the forest combine to create a deeply moving atmosphere, inviting all who visit to pause, reflect, and connect with the sacred forces of nature.