Koyasan and
Cultural Properties

Mt. Koya is located in the northeastern part of Wakayama Prefecture. Specifically Koyasan as the sanctuary of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism is the flat plain 800 m above sea level, 6km from east to west and 3 km from south to west, which is surrounded by the eight peaks of the 1000 m high mountain range. In this area, there are 117 temples, and historically more than 3000 temples existed. The dharmic lineage of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism has been strictly embraced since 1200 years ago. The treasures or the cultural assets of Koyasan have been maintained at each temple in this environment.

National Historic SitePrecinct of Kongobuji temple

National Historic Site – Precincts of Daimon, Danjo-Garan, Kongobuji temple, and Okunoin.

Kongobuji

National Architectural TreasureFudo-do, Kongobuji temple

Built in 1198 AD, in accordance with the wish of Hachijo-nyoin, a princess of the Retired Emperor Toba.
It is the oldest building at Danjo-Garan. Since originally the statures of Fudo Myoo (Important Cultural Properties) and Hachidai-Doji (National Treasure) sculpted by Unkei were enshrined, the hall is called Fudo-do.

Fudo-do

Important Cultural PropertyHistorical Building Daimon, Kongobuji temple

The main entrance of Koyasan. After burned by several times of forest fire and thunderbolt strike, the present Daimon was reconstructed in 1705. The statues of Nio enshrined in the both sides of the gate are the second largest in Japan.

Daimon

Cultural Property Not Yet DesignatedKechien-Daishi, Kongobuji temple

Kobo Daishi or Kukai as hs has been knowen posthumously, is one of the most revered religious figures in the history of Japan. The founder of the Shingon sect in Japan,Kobo Daishi introduced the highly sophisticated theological system that promised that enlightement was attainable in this existence through the proper performance of elaborate rituals involving body, mind, and speech. In 804 Kobo Daishi left Japan for China, where he intended to spend twenty years studying Esoteric doctorines. Instead, after receiving the transmission of Esoteric teachings from the Chinese master Keika(Ch.Huiguo) in 805, he returned home in order to promote the Shingon sect. Kobo Daishi believed that works of art were of particular importance in Esoteric ritual, and so he brought from the continent numerous images, texts, and ritual implements that later became the prototypes for objects used in ceremonies at Esoteric temples throughout Japan.

Daimon You can create a spiritual connection by touching the stature.
* NOT allowed to touch the other statues and artifacts.

NOTE

  1. Unauthorized use of images is strictly prohibited.