1300 years ago, Buddhist devotees prayed that three lotus pedals would land in holly places. It is said, one of those pedals landed at Mt. Mitoku. Using this location, Shugendo (a Shinto/Buddhist Japanese mountain sect) started operating in the area. Enshrined at the base of the mountain are relics of Buddha, Amitaba, and Mahavairocana inside of Sanbutsuji temple, which is being proposed to become a national treasure. Also, built into the face of a treacherous cliff lies one of Japan's oldest temples. Wrapped in mystery, how it was constructed, even to this day, is not fully understood. Regarded as sacred ground to members of Mountain Buddhism, and being voted to be regarded as a World Heritage site, Nageiredo is not to be missed!

See here ⇒ http://www.misasa-navi.jp/275/