Guide
Sanbutsu-ji Nyotodo is a National Treasure located within the inner precincts of Sanbutsu-ji, an ancient Tendai sect temple on Mt. Mitoku (elevation 899.7m) in central Tottori Prefecture. Its most striking feature is its construction: the temple is built into the steep northern cliffside. Surrounded by towering mountains and a changing landscape of valleys, this area is a designated historic site of scenic beauty. The method used to build Nyotodo into the natural rock face remains a subject of great mystery and fascination.
The origins of Sanbutsu-ji are rooted in legend; it is said that in the year 706, the monk En no Ozunu scattered lotus petals, and one of the petals landed here, marking the site. Since then, it has developed as a center for Shugendo (ascetic mountain worship). Dendrochronology conducted by the Nara Cultural Research Institute confirms that Nyotodo was constructed during the late Heian period (1086–1184). The temple's name, Sanbutsu-ji, comes from the enshrining of the three deities—Amida, Shaka, and Dainichi—established by Jikaku Daishi in 849. Historically, the temple was highly revered by figures such as Minamoto no Yoritomo and Ashikaga Yoshimitsu.
Beyond the National Treasure Nyotodo, the temple grounds feature several important structures, including Monjudo, Jizodo, Nokyodo, the Bell Tower, Kannon-do, and Fudo-do. Nyotodo itself is uniquely positioned, with its base resting on a tuff breccia cliff and its upper structure seemingly sheltered by an overhanging layer of andesite lava. At the foot of the mountain lie the three sub-temples: Riko-in, Shozen-in, and Kaisei-in, each playing a significant role in the mountain's spiritual history.
The scenery around Mt. Mitoku changes beautifully with the seasons. The periods from March to May and September to November offer particularly striking views of the surrounding flora and terrain. Please note that during the winter season (approximately December to March), access to the mountain may be prohibited due to heavy snow. The reception desk is open from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and visitors must complete their descent by 4:30 PM. We recommend visiting during the bright daylight hours to fully enjoy the breathtaking valley views.
Visiting Nyotodo is more than a simple sightseeing tour; it is a journey through the path of the ascetics (Gyojado). The process of climbing the steep mountain trails to reach the National Treasure allows visitors to directly experience the historical form of spiritual practice. Upon arrival at the reception, visitors are required to wear a