Hoshinoiwaya and Hoshidaniji

At the southern foot of Mount Nakatsumine in Kamiyama town, Tokushima, Hoshinoiwaya is a mystical sanctuary where a star legend of Kobo Daishi sleeps. It is said that Kobo Daishi worshipped the seven stars of the Big Dipper from a peak at Tairyuji, prayed down the evil star, and sealed that evil star within this cave. The temple of Hoshidaniji rests at the cave, and because the Fudo Falls can be viewed from behind deep inside, it is also called the falls seen from behind, a hidden treasure of Kamiyama known to a discerning few.

Highlights

- The cave of star legend, said to seal the evil star prayed down by Kobo Daishi - The rare view of the falls from behind, seen from deep within the cave - The cool and mystical air woven by the spray of the falls and the cave - The deep history of faith, linked to the mountain legends of Nakatsumine

Enjoying the Seasons

In the season of fresh greenery the surrounding mountains feel vivid and even the path to the cave is pleasant. In summer the inside of the cave is cool and the spray softens the heat. In autumn the colored trees are beautiful, and in winter the flow of the falls feels all the purer in the clear air.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: Kamiyama town, Myozai district, Tokushima - Access: It is convenient to drive from the direction of JR Tokushima Station - The footing inside the cave can be slippery, so walk with care - It can get wet near the falls, so clothing you do not mind soiling is reassuring

A Quick Tip

The experience of viewing the falls from behind deep inside the cave is a mystery found only here. Gazing at the light streaming through the falling water, you can feel on your skin the special air of this sanctuary wrapped in star legend.