World Heritage: The "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range," which includes the Kongōbu-ji Temple in Mount Kōya, was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2004.
Founded in 816, Koyasan was established by Kukai (also known as Kobo Daishi) after receiving the land from Emperor Saga as a base for training and the propagation of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism. Koyasan is located at an altitude of approximately 800 meters, nestled in the mountains, providing a tranquil environment ideal for practice.
Origin of the Temple Name: The name "Kongōbō-ji" originally referred to the entire central temple of Mount Kōya, but in 1869 (the second year of the Meiji era), the temple that became the administrative center of Mount Kōya was given the name "Kongōbō-ji."
Kongobu-ji Temple, located in Mount Koya, is also known as a place of training. Here, not only do monks practice daily rituals, but ordinary visitors can also stay at temples known as "shukubo" to experience spiritual training, Zen meditation, and sutra copying.
Daimon (Great Gate)
  • Overview: This is an important gate that serves as the main entrance when entering Mount Koya. The current Daimon was rebuilt in 1705 and is a massive vermilion gate standing approximately 25 meters tall. Flanking the gate are statues of the fierce-looking Nio guardians, who protect the entire mountain.
  • Location: It is located on the western side of Mount Koya, leading visitors through to the central area of the mountain.
September 19, 2024

This is a Buddhist temple located in Koya-san, a sacred site in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. It was established by Kobo Daishi Kukai during the Heian period and has become a central presence in the Shingon sect of Buddhism. Kongobu-ji Temple attracts many followers from both within Japan and abroad, and is known as a holy place of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism.

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