Tamadono Iwaya: A Spiritual Cave in Tateyama

Tamadono Iwaya, nestled in the Nakaniikawa District of Toyama, is a unique tourist attraction celebrated for its stunning natural landscapes and cultural importance. These two caves were formed from cooled lava following an eruption of the Tateyama volcano. According to legend, Saeki Arinori, at just sixteen years old, received a divine message in 701 to pioneer the Tateyama Mountains after being guided into the caves by a white hawk and a black bear. The hawk is said to be the god Fudo Myoo, and the bear, the god Amida Nyorai.Over a thousand years ago, Tamadono Iwaya served as a place for mountain ascetics to stay. One of the caves features more than ten stone Buddha statues. The area around Tamadono Iwaya provides well-maintained walking paths with views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Each season brings its own charm, from autumn foliage to snow-covered winter scenes.Tamadono Iwaya is near the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, a mountain sightseeing route through the Northern Japan Alps. The route utilizes various modes of transportation, such as cable cars, electric buses, and ropeways. Highlights along the route include the snow walls of Murodo, Kurobe Dam, and the volcanic Jigokudani "Hell Valley".