Welcome to Yakuoin Temple, Mount Takao.

This audio guide is designed to enrich your experience of Goma asceticism. As you listen, remember that your personal "journey of prayer" begins now, no matter where you are.

You are on the sacred Mount Takao, a site revered for centuries by ascetics who have come here to practice and pray. Halfway up the mountain lies Yakuoin Temple, where the daily prayer ceremony known as Goma takes place.

If you are participating in this experience, it’s likely there is something you wish to pray for deep in your heart. In this guide, we’ll explain the significance of Goma and how you can engage with it meaningfully.

Before we begin the experience, let's explore the meaning and history behind Goma.

Goma is essentially "prayer using fire," but this fire is rich in stories and traditions that have accumulated over time. Its origins can be traced back to ancient India, where prayers were offered to the gods through a fire ritual known as "homa." This practice was embraced by Buddhism and transformed into “Goma.”

During the Heian period in Japan, a significant figure named Kukai, also known as Kobo Daishi, returned from China and expanded the practice of Goma prayers within the framework of esoteric Shingon Buddhism.

There’s a story that illustrates the significance of the fire you see before you.

Long ago, when a water shortage plagued the land, a monk named Kukai retreated to the mountains, determined to help those suffering. He kept a fire burning day and night, embodying hope and perseverance during this desperate time.

One evening, as Kukai prayed for rain, the sky responded. Thunder rumbled like a divine call, and soon, rain began to fall—an event that the villagers recognized as the moment their heartfelt prayers were finally answered.

Now, as you observe the fire during the Goma ritual, understand that this is no ordinary flame. It represents the wisdom of the Buddha, a sacred fire that burns away worldly desires and delusions, making space for your prayers to ascend.

Picture the scene: monks gather around the fire, their voices rising in a chorus of sutras, accompanied by the rhythmic beat of drums and the calls of conch shells, creating an atmosphere of reverence. In this sacred ritual, a monk will hold a Goma charm—an offering upon which your name and wish are inscribed.

As he reads your wish aloud, he will cast it into the flames. At that very moment, your wish is transformed as the fire carries it to the Buddha, turning it into a prayer.

As you listen closely, can you hear the sound of the conch horn? This powerful sound marks the beginning of the Goma ritual, a ceremony rich with meaning and significance.

The conch horn is often described as the voice of the Buddha. Its sacred resonance calms the minds of all who hear it, gently inviting you into the profound world of the Buddha.

Also present at this ceremony is the “shakujo,” a walking stick that is believed to drive away evil spirits and purify the surroundings, creating a serene environment for prayer.

The monks you see, dressed in traditional ascetic Shugendo attire, embody the essence of mountain spirits and the Buddha himself. Notice the small "tokin," or collar, worn on their heads—it symbolizes a simplified version of the Buddha's crown, representing Dainichi Nyorai, the universal energy that surrounds us all. Clothed in the wisdom of the Buddha, they are here to guide your prayers.

As the fire begins to grow, the drums reverberate through the air, and the chanting swells. In this moment, take a moment to reflect on the following questions:

What has brought you here today?

What’s the intention behind your prayer?

What do you hope for in your future?

As your wishes are spoken in front of the fire, they transform into a "Goma charm." This charm is not simply a request; it’s a personal vow to yourself.

Take your Goma charm home and set aside some time to ponder it in your daily life. Reflect on what you prayed for here on Mount Takao. By keeping this intention in your heart, you’ll always find a way back to this sacred fire.

We invite you to arrive a little earlier than the scheduled registration time for the Goma ritual. Take this opportunity to enjoy a leisurely stroll around the beautiful temple grounds.

As you walk among the rows of cedar trees, feel the gentle breeze and listen to the soothing sounds of birds singing. Each element of the environment is designed to help quiet your mind and prepare you for a deeper experience.

When you find a peaceful spot, take a moment to pause and reflect. Close your eyes and take a deep breath, inhaling the crisp, clear air of Mount Takao. With every exhalation, release any distractions that cloud your thoughts. This simple practice will help you become more attuned to your inner self as you prepare to pray.

Remember, prayer is about facing your own heart in stillness. But it’s not just a solitary act. When you join your palms together in prayer to Buddha, know that Buddha responds by gently placing his hands together towards you as well. This moment becomes a two-way exchange, reminding you that you are never alone in your thoughts and wishes.

As you notice these subtle signs of connection, you may find that this journey becomes a meaningful beginning for your own practice of prayer. Embrace the experience, and let it guide you forward.

*This guide was created based on documents and interviews, and includes some interpretation done by us at ON THE TRIP. Theories differ between experts, so try to find out what really happened on your travels!