Mt. Ontake

When I reached the bottom of Mt. Takahata, I was already supposed to go back but then I saw giant torii gates. I thought it would be a small temple so I gave it a look, it turned out to be another giant temple complex on a hill named Chichibuontake. It was a winding route that required a lot more hiking but it was worth it. Such a place was even more forested and the spiritual energy here was really palpable. I passed through and paid homage to plenty of shrines and temples as I tried to make my way to the top temple, it was like a spiritual pilgrimage. At the top, was another smaller bell for happiness that I rang.

After such a spontaneous adventure, I was so ready to go back so I made my way to Agano station, passing through Suwa Shrine. Today was a really blessed day after so many shrines and temples!

I had missed my train as I approached Agano station, but in return I was able to see a temple dedicated to the seven lucky gods with a fertility Kannon outside with plenty of babies and Hotei, one of the seven lucky gods carrying a child as well. This day turned into such a spiritual day when I was just expecting to climb a mountain. All in all, it's definitely one for the books.Read more