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Onikita Town is the only town in Japan with the character for "oni" (demon). True to its name, this local mountain village is steeped in demon legends. The symbolic spot of this area is the Narayama Tomyoji Temple Ruins. Though burned down in the 1300s, the entire mountain area was once the site of a mountain temple dedicated to esoteric mountain Buddhism. In the past, monks practiced asceticism here day and night. These people were experts on the region's demons and mountains, providing guides and support for mountain ascetics. The main focus of this tour is tracing part of the monks' training at the Narayama Tomyoji Temple Ruins, which was once the center of this practice. Starting from the history museum at the foot of the mountain, you'll first learn about the history and culture of the area. Then, you'll change into monk's kimono and prepare for the climb. Starting early in the morning, you'll trek approximately 30 minutes from the museum to the remains of the main hall, a sacred place for ascetic training, for meditation. Depending on the weather, you can look down on the mystical sea of clouds from the Tomyoji Temple Ruins, located approximately 300 meters above sea level. The sea of clouds filling the valley is a spectacular sight. A perfect location to clear your mind awaits. After descending the mountain, you can further clear your mind with calligraphy and tea, and regain your energy for a new journey. The total experience lasts approximately three hours.
The night before, we stayed at Yamaajisai, a Japanese house symbolic of local Japan. Experience the rural lifestyle with the hospitality of a local couple. The friendly couple, Tatsuya and Nanae, were born and raised in Kihoku Town. They live close to the local environment, farming and living off the land. At Yamaajisai, you can experience a variety of experiences, including harvesting vegetables in the fields, making konjac, a healthy Japanese food, and baking pizzas packed with local vegetables. The delicious, homemade dinner will recharge your body. The interaction with Tatsuya and Nanae is particularly noteworthy. Their smiles always warm the hearts of visitors. There's no doubt they'll become like "Japanese parents" to visitors.