Akayama Zen'in

Nestled high in the Shugakuin mountains, Sekisanzen'in enshrines Taienzo Myo-o as its principal deity, serving as a secret sanctuary for esoteric Buddhist practice. Historically, Enryakuji monks came to master the deepest secrets of Shingon Buddhism. Surrounded by cryptomeria trees over a thousand years old, it breathes with the vitality of ancient times. The very place name Shugakuin—learning place—perfectly describes this sanctuary of wisdom. Autumn's crimson leaves seem to inscribe primordial knowledge for those who read them.