This group of temples clinging to the mountainside comes into view as you climb the hill (1,015 steps) alongside hundred-year-old trees and rocks eroded into strange shapes. The site, also called Risshaku-ji, was founded in 860 and visited in the 17C by the poet Basho who wrote some of his famous haikus here. The first and oldest temple, (Konponchudo), is home to some rare statues of Buddha and a light "that never goes out". Don't miss the Godaido pavilion on stilts that commands a splendid view over the valley.