Nageire-dou Temple (Okuin Nageiredou)

Nageire-dou Hall forms part of Sanbutsu-ji Temple, a Buddhist temple complex founded in 706 by the legendary monk En no Gyōja, who is considered the founder of Shugendō, a syncretic religion blending Old Shinto, Japanese folk animism, Taoism, and esoteric Buddhism. Built during the Heian period, this remarkable wooden hall clings precariously to a cliff face on Mount Mitoku at an elevation of 900 meters in Tottori Prefecture's mountainous interior.

Designated as Japan's most dangerous National Treasure, the temple presents one of the country's most challenging and spiritually significant pilgrimage experiences. The hall's construction remains an engineering mystery, with its wooden structure seemingly defying gravity as it emerges from the sheer rock face. Located in Misasa town, Tottori Prefecture, the temple represents the pinnacle of Japanese mountain asceticism and architectural ingenuity.

The journey to Nageire-dou requires visitors to undertake a demanding mountain pilgrimage that passes multiple halls built into large rocks and caves. The climb takes 1.5 to 2 hours round trip and involves traversing steep, rocky terrain aided by chains and roots. The challenging hiking trail leads to spectacular cliffside views and offers an authentic glimpse into Japan's ancient spiritual practices. Visitors must register at the office near the main Sanbutsu-ji Temple building before beginning their ascent.

Access requires advance booking through the Misasa Onsen Tourism Association at +81-858-43-0431. Admission costs 1,200 yen for adults (13+) and 600 yen for children (7-12), with children under 6 admitted free but restricted to the main hall area. English-language guides are available for an additional fee, with group guide services costing 18,000 yen. The temple operates year-round but closes during temple events, inclement weather, and heavy snowfall. The nearest access point is Misasa, which connects to major cities via JR train services and local bus routes.