Map
The holiest ground on Mt. Koya, where the monk Kobo Daishi (Kukai) is said to remain in eternal meditation. An avenue of over 200,000 tombstones and memorial towers lines the approximately 2 km approach—the largest sacred cemetery in Japan. UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Temple Info
- Sect
- 真言宗
- Principal Image
- 弘法大師（空海）
- Founded
- 816年（弘仁7年）
History & Origins
Kukai founded Mt. Koya as a center of esoteric Buddhism in 816 CE. He entered a state of eternal meditation (nyujo) in 835 CE, and a ritual meal is still offered to him twice daily. He is believed to be spiritually present, awaiting the coming of the future Buddha Maitreya.
Highlights
The solemn approach through towering cedar trees (from Ichi-no-Hashi Bridge to Okunoin), the Torodo Hall (the Lantern Hall, where sacred flames never go out), and the innermost mausoleum (Gobyo) radiate a profound spiritual gravity. Evening visits are also deeply moving.
Visitor Guide
Staying at a temple lodging (shukubo) allows you to attend the morning sutra chanting (from 6 a.m.). The path to Okunoin is about 2 km one way. A minimum of one overnight stay on Mt. Koya is strongly recommended to do the area justice.
Best Season
Early summer for fresh greenery, autumn for fall foliage, and winter for a mystical snow-covered landscape.
Annual Events
- 3月21日
御影供（みえく）
空海の命日（旧暦）に行われる最重要法会
- 8月13日
万燈供養会
13万基の燈籠に火が灯される幻想的な行事
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