Map
The head temple of the Shingon school of Esoteric Buddhism, effectively the center of all Mt. Koya. Its highlights include Japan's largest rock garden, 'Banryutei,' exquisite screen paintings by the Kano school, and the 'Sanko-no-Matsu'—a pine tree said to have been planted by Kukai himself.
Temple Info
- Sect
- 真言宗
- Principal Image
- 弘法大師（空海）
- Founded
- 819年（弘仁10年）
History & Origins
Kukai established Mt. Koya in 816 CE and built this temple in 819 CE. The present buildings were created by merging Seiganji Temple (built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi) with Kozanji Temple, formally unified during the Meiji period in 1869.
Highlights
The Banryutei rock garden (2,340 square meters—the largest in Japan), 165 panels of Kano school screen paintings, the Imperial Audience Chamber, and the Yanagi-no-Ma (the room where Toyotomi Hidetsugi committed ritual suicide) are among the highlights.
Visitor Guide
The natural starting point for exploring Mt. Koya. Combining a visit here with Okunoin is the classic itinerary. Staying at a temple lodging (shukubo) is a uniquely rewarding cultural experience.
Best Season
Autumn for fall foliage (especially late October to early November) and winter for a hauntingly beautiful snow-covered landscape.
Attributes
Annual Events
- 6月15日
青葉まつり
弘法大師空海の誕生日を祝う祭典
- 3月21日
御影供（みえく）
空海の命日を偲ぶ最重要法会
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