For us Kyoto residents, Mt. Atago (愛宕山) in the northwest of Kyoto is one of the two symbolic mountain along with Mt. Hiei (比叡山). Here in Kyoto, we have an interesting myth about the height of these two mountains, and it goes like this...
Once upon a time, Mt. Hiei and Mt. Atago compared their heights with each other. At first, they were exactly the same height, however, as Mt. Hiei who was way too competitive lost its temper and punched Mt. Atago in the head. Mt. Atago got a bump and won the competition just because its height was increased exactly by the size of the bump. If you see any picture of Mt. Atago's ridge, you will recognize that there is a bump-like elevation on the top.
The Atago jinja shrine (愛宕神社) stands at the summit of 924 meters high. The god enshrined there is said to be responsive for wishes of fire prevention. If you visit any common houses in Kyoto, you will find one or two talismans from this shrine adorned on their kitchen walls.
The crisp air around the peak surrounded by fresh greenery is very refreshing. It makes you feel that you are standing in the sacred realm of the god.
Akane Kibune
Kyoto Certificate 1st Grade
Access:
90-120 mins. from Kiyotaki bus stop, Kyoto bus
URL:
http://atagojinjya.jp/
MAP:
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