Hozan-ji is located at the junction of routes-9 & 10 of the Ikoma-sanke Hiking Course and lies in the shadow of Mt Ikomayama so, needles-to-say, the area is very popular with hikers.
That's not to say the complex is only accessible by foot. The Kintetsu Railway Company operate a cable-car from the Ikoma Station, that goes all the way to the summit of Ikomayama. If you don't mind driving your vehicle up steep roads, there is vehicular access too.
Many years ago Ikomayama was originally an object of worship by the ancient people that lived in the area - the mountain was said to have some spiritual significance - so, in the year 655AD, a training center was opened for Buddhist Monks, by a gentleman by the name of En no Gyoja. It wasn't until 1678AD that Hozan-ji was established.
The complex requires a certain level of fitness as, once you have entered the main courtyard, there are several paths circumnavigating the complex and a path taking you up-and-through the forest along an avenue of religious icons . . . .
. . . . as seen in the above image. Each icon has a tray for devotees to make an offering. This particular path leads to the upper temple.
And, from here, you are afforded views of the surrounding forest.
As you descend you arrive at a clearing which give you views overlooking the main courtyard. From here, to your right, is this two-storied Pagoda. The track from here takes you around the outside of the main complex and returns you to the main exit.
If your next destination from here is Ikoma Sta' area, may I suggest you take the lane, directly in front of you, once you have exited the precinct. During certain holiday seasons, you are likely to find stalls selling a variety of Japanese food as-well-as souvenirs.
Oh, before I forget, here is a video of my visit to Hozan-ji Temple. | |