Beautiful Scenery in Japan
In this blog, I’ll be sharing some of the beautiful places and landscapes across Japan that I have personally photographed.
Today, I’d like to introduce Tarumi Ruins in Yamagata Prefecture, a mysterious and little-known spot hidden deep in the mountains near the famous Yamadera temple.
A Hidden Side of Yamadera
Yamadera is one of Yamagata’s best-known tourist attractions, famous for its historic temples and spectacular mountain scenery. But beyond the well-known sights lies a much quieter area sometimes referred to as the “back side of Yamadera.”
This is where you’ll find Tarumi Ruins.
Near the shrine’s torii gate, there is a small parking area that can accommodate around three cars. From there, cross the railway tracks directly in front of the torii and make your way into the temple grounds.
After visiting the temple, head to the right and follow the mountain trail for about 15 minutes. The path gradually climbs into the forest, eventually leading you to this secluded and atmospheric spot.
Since the trail involves a short hike uphill, I recommend wearing comfortable clothes and proper walking shoes or sneakers.
A Place of Mountain Spirituality
Until around the Taisho era, yamabushi, Japanese mountain ascetics, are said to have practiced here.
The most striking feature of Tarumi Ruins is the unusual rock formation, with its honeycomb-like surface, standing alongside the torii gate. The combination of the natural rock, the surrounding forest, and the traditional shrine gate creates an almost otherworldly atmosphere.
It feels like a place where nature and spirituality have quietly existed side by side for centuries.
Interestingly, the rock formation looks much larger in photographs than it actually is. When you see it in person, you may find it surprisingly small and intimate.
Even so, standing there and imagining the yamabushi who once came to these mountains to devote themselves to their spiritual practices is a remarkably moving experience.
A Quiet Alternative to the Famous Yamadera
Yamadera itself is a well-known destination and attracts many visitors, while Tarumi Ruins offers a completely different experience.
Both require a little physical effort to explore, but that is part of what makes them special. If you enjoy discovering places away from the usual tourist routes, Tarumi Ruins is definitely worth adding to your Yamagata itinerary.
If you visit Yamadera, consider taking some extra time to explore beyond the famous temple and discover this hidden side of the mountains.
I’ll be sharing many more photographs of beautiful and fascinating places throughout Japan, including some lesser-known destinations that you may not find in typical guidebooks.
I hope you’ll enjoy discovering Japan with me, one beautiful place at a time.
Tarumizu Ruins
https://www.tendodays.com/blog/ura-yamadera/
https://yamagatakanko.com/en/attractions/detail_12319.html
Yamadera – Tateishidera
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