One-day Experience of Japanese Mountain Asceticism in Inunaki Mountainous Area

Inunaki Mountain is well known as a place for Shugendo, mountain worship very unique to Japan. Tens of thousands of worshippers have been visiting this place for ascetic practices. They regarded mountain, water, wind and all nature as objects of their religion. They place themselves into nature and practice rigorous training to achieve spiritual enlightenment. Now, this traditional mountain asceticism is open to the public on limited days only. On this occasion, get away from your normal life and become one of the mountain worshippers. Local guide will take you to the deep mountain area. You may be stunned by 48 spectacular waterfalls and things you have never seen before. All living things will be welcomed there. Put your smartphone down and find yourself in nature.You will experience a mountain ascetic practice and a waterfall ascetic practice. Mountain priests will lead and support trainees in both practices. Meditation standing under the waterfall will teach you how to take a step back for a while and calm down. This once-in-a-lifetime experience will also give you special tips on your life. After all the training, the guide will take you to the local natural hot spring. Soak in hot water while looking back on a special experience you will have done on the day.

HIGHLIGHTS & WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT

・You will experience a mountain ascetic practice and a waterfall ascetic practice. Meditation standing under the waterfall will surely regain peace of your mind.

・Enjoy breath-taking natural scenery during mountain-walking.

・Certificate of completion will be given under the name of Shippouryuji-temple after all the ascetic trainings.

・The guide will take you to the natural hot spring after ascetic practices. Inunaki-area is the only natural hot spring resort in Osaka Prefecture.

ITINERARY

7:00 We will meet at the ticket gate of Izumisano Station, Nankai Electric Railway.

(JR Hineno Station is also available for the meeting place, please let us know in advance)

7:10 We leave for Inunaki area by public bus. (7:22 In case of Hineno Station)

7:45 We arrive at Inunakiyama bus stop.

8:45 We meet other participants at the square in front of the statue of God of Fire. Guidance will be given by Yamabushi, mountain priest.

You will challenge Yama-gyo, ascetic practice in the mountain.

11:30 (Approximately) We will have a break for a light lunch when we find time.

You will challenge Taki-gyo, ascetic practice under the waterfall.

14:30 Certificate of completion will be given under the name of Shippouryuji-temple. We will leave the temple and climb down the mountain.

15:15 We drop by at Inunaki natural hot spring.

16:50 We leave for Izumisano Station, Nankai Electric Railway or JR Hineno Station by public bus.

17:30 (Approximately) End of the tour ※End of the tour time may fluctuate depending on the progress of ascetic training.