Koyasan

Koyasan is the centre of Shingon Buddhism.  This esoteric Buddhist sect was introduced to Japan in 805 by Kobo Daishi, one of Japan’s most  significant religious figures. A small, secluded, mountaintop temple town developed around the sect’s  headquarters, and today it is home to more than 100 temples.

Among these, Kongobuji ranks as  the most important temple, alongside Okunoin, a cemetery and inner sanctum home to the site of the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi. Of course, there are some who believe that Kobo Daishi did not die––he is merely resting in  eternal meditation while awaiting Maitreya, the Buddha of the Future. Visitors come from all over  to pray to him, and you’ll often see pilgrims chanting sutras here.

Unsurprisingly, this is considered one of the most sacred places in Japan. Besides the mausoleum, Okunoin is also worth visiting for the magical Torodo Hall, with its 10,000  lanterns illuminating the darkness. Its cemetery is equally intriguing. There are many beautiful,  moss-encrusted gravestones, including some rather uniquely designed ones, and the cemetery is  particularly atmospheric at night. Don’t forget to bring a torch if you do decide on a night walk, as it’s poorly lit.

Koyasan is also one of the best places to experience a temple stay. Many temples offer shukubo  pilgrim lodgings. As a bonus, you’ll also feast on delicious shojin ryori - Buddhist vegetarian cuisine - a tasty introduction to spiritual life at Koyasan! Join the monks for an early meditation session in the morning for an extra special and insightful start to your day.