Manidera

On the outskirts of Tottori City, on the slope of Mount Mani, stands an old temple called Manidera. Mount Mani, about 357 meters high, has long gathered faith as a sacred Tendai peak ranked with Daisen and Mitoku. It is believed that the souls of the departed gather here, and that faith still lives on without break.

The charm of this mountain lies in the strange scenery of the inner sanctuary, shaped by giant rocks and caves. The standing rock where a deity is said to have descended, and the sacred boulder at the inner sanctuary, have an overwhelming presence, and you feel the power of the stone itself on your skin. It has also long been loved as a viewpoint overlooking the Sea of Japan and the Tottori Sand Dunes.

Highlights

- A sacred Tendai mountain ranked with Daisen and Mitoku - The standing rock where a deity is said to have descended - The strange scenery of the inner sanctuary shaped by giant rocks and caves - A view overlooking the Sea of Japan and the Tottori Sand Dunes

Enjoying the Seasons

In spring the fresh green of the mountain path is dazzling and the climb is refreshing. In summer the shade brings coolness and the chill air of the rocks is pleasant. In autumn the whole mountain turns color and the view from the standing rock grows even more beautiful. In winter all falls silent, wrapped in the solemn air unique to a sacred peak.

Access and Basic Information

- Located on the slope of Mount Mani in Tottori City - About 20 minutes by car from the Tottori Nishi interchange - Also about 20 minutes by car from JR Tottori Station - A climb of about 300 steep stone steps leads to the precinct

A Quick Tip

A steep stone stairway continues to the precinct, so come in comfortable shoes and at an easy pace suited to your strength. The standing rock and the sacred boulder of the inner sanctuary are spots to face slowly and at length. Do not miss the view of the Sea of Japan from the lookout either.