高尾山薬王院

Yakuoin Temple

高尾山薬王院　本堂 by KENPEI CC BY

In Brief

Buddhist Temple in Mt. Takao, Mt. Takao

Open 24 hours

Free entry

Allow 30 minutes

No regular closing days

Official Site

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高尾山薬王院

Updated 12 June 2020

About Yakuoin Temple

A beautifully decorated temple set in the incredible natural surroundings of Mt. Takao.

Formally known as Takaosan Yakuoin Yukuji, Yakuoin Temple was established on Mt. Takao around 744 and has historic ties with the Todaiji Temple of Nara. The current buildings are believed to date back to around 1648.

Nearby & Related

Mount Takao Observation Point

in Mt. Takao, Mt. Takao

At 599 metres, Mt. Takao is an incredibly popular hiking spot easily accessed from Tokyo. Considered a sacred mountain, it has long been visited for spiritual worship, including the Yakuoin Temple nearby.

The observation point offers incredible views over Tokyo, and Mt. Fuji can often be seen in the distance.

Takaosan Hiking Trail 1

in Mt. Takao, Mt. Takao

One of several hiking trails covering Mt. Takao, Trail 1 is the most popular as it is paved and passes all the mountain’s major sites.

Depending on fitness, the trail takes approximately 90 minutes to climb from base to peak. However, that time can be cut down by using the Takaosan “Echo” Chair Lift or Takaosan Cable Car.

Takosugi Octopus Cedar

in Mt. Takao, Mt. Takao

At over 500 years old, the Takosugi - or octopus root cedar - stands at around 37 meters tall, with a circumference of almost 6m.

Considered sacred, many people come to see the tree which has grown to resemble the rounded tentacles of an octopus.

Tenryuji Temple

in Arashiyama, Kyoto

One of the finest gardens in Kyoto, and stunning mountain backdrop, makes the Tenryu-ji Temple the must-see attraction in Arashiyama. A World Heritage Site.

Kinkakuji

in Northern Kyoto, Kyoto

Kinkakuji - The Golden Pavilion - is Kyoto’s most iconic World Heritage site. A Zen temple covered with gold leaf set in beautiful traditional garden.

Kiyomizudera Temple

in Southern Higashiyama, Kyoto

1 alert

Kiyomizudera is the most famous and celebrated of all Kyoto’s temples, and for good reason! A designated National Treasure and World Heritage site, this beautiful temple has stunning views, and a rich history back to the 8th century.