Kuramadera Temple

Kuramadera Temple（鞍馬寺） was founded in 770 by Gan Tei, a disciple of Ganjin, and the main deity is said to have been Bishamonten.From Niomon Gate at the entrance to Kuramadera Temple, it is about 1 km (about a 30-minute walk) to Kondo, the main hall of the temple. You can also take a cable car up to the halfway point.

Kurama is said to be the place where Minamoto no Yoshitsune (Ushiwakamaru) studied academics and military arts as a child (for about 10 years from the age of 7).Minamoto no Yoshitsune was a military commander in the late Heian period.His father was defeated in battle against the Heike clan, and he was entrusted to Kuramadera Temple.Later, he and his elder brother Minamoto no Yoritomo destroyed the Heike clan.

From Kuramadera Temple, you can also walk along a mountain path to Kifune Shrine (about a 60-minute walk from the main Kondo hall).June 20, “Takekiri-eshiki“.On October 22, Kurama-no-Himatsuri, one of the three most bizarre festivals in Kyoto, will be held.

Access to Kuramadera Temple from Kyoto Station takes approximately 53 minutes by bus and Eizan Train (not including transfer time).