Tour Maps and Itinerary Ideas

Let the mountains fill your senses as you walk through this valley of lush primeval forest. Besides a total of 48 waterfalls of varying sizes, you’ll love the natural colors of the surroundings that change with each season, from fresh green in early summer to bright orange and yellow in autumn. With mountain-fresh air that fills your lungs and a mystical mood that wafts through the entire valley, it’s no wonder this is known as a sacred place brimming with a special healing vibe.

The owner built this rustic mountain cafe on their own using a do-it-yourself approach. Just below the terrace flows the Inunaki River, and the surrounding forest draws you fully into the current season, be it spring cherry blossoms or fall colors. Against the gentle murmur of the stream, enjoy meals including Inunaki pork and Inunaki chicken, followed by home-made desserts.

You’ll find various treasures related to Katsuragi Shugen. In addition to pieces such as a seated statue of the Tengu goblin wearing the clothing of a Shugendo practitioner, there are many precious items on display, such as the Sonsho Mandala, used as the principal image of esoteric Buddhism when praying for good health, good fortune, eradication of sins, and rain. There are also items such as a staff used by Shugendo practitioners in their training. All in all, this is a great place to study the history of Katsuragi Shugen.

If you walk about 300 meters past the Shipporyu-ji Temple main hall, you’ll see the 10-meter-high Gyoja no Taki Falls beyond the small vermilion Seiryudo temple. Pay 50 yen at the Seiryudo and you can view the waterfall from up close. En no Gyoja and other historically renowned monks like Kukai are said to have meditated under this waterfall. It’s a practice still popular among devout followers from all over Japan, and you can do it too if you make reservations in advance.

After a hike, come and enjoy a no-fuss barbecue next to a forest stream. There’s nothing like the taste of barbecue in the fresh outdoor air. Satisfy your hunger with the all-inclusive barbecue set (2,980 yen) comprising 150 grams of beef, 100 grams of chicken, 50 grams of pork, five kinds of vegetables, frankfurter, and a rice ball. Enjoy swimming and splashing around in the nearby shallow stream.

Fudouguchikan, a hot-spring lodging beside a peaceful stream in Inunakisan, is the ideal way to recharge your tired body. Gaze out on the fresh green forests of Inunaki Valley from an open-air bath by a stream, and let your five senses absorb the natural beauty as a soothing breeze blows gently across your face. The baths have soap and shampoo, and there are towels for sale, so come as you are and relax.

Note: If the hot spring is crowded, the number of day visitors may be limited.