Place of worship • 152 Kōyasan, Koya, Ito District, Wakayama 648-0211, Japan
Located in the center of Mount Koya, the Danjo Garan is the foundational training ground for Shingon Esoteric Buddhism, founded by Kobo Daishi Kukai. Passing through the striking red gate that stands against the blue sky, you will be greeted by a majestic scene of 19 significant buildings.
The Great Pagoda, known as the symbol of Danjo Garan, stands at 48.5 meters high and is Japan's oldest Tahoto Pagoda. Inside, you will find a three-dimensional mandala created uniquely by Kukai. The central Dainichi Nyorai is surrounded by the Four Buddhas of the Diamond Realm, and the sixteen Bodhisattvas depicted on the sixteen pillars vividly embody the universe of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism.
The Main Hall, located at the center of the garan, serves an important role as the Main Hall of Mount Koya. It enshrines the secret Buddha, Yakushi Nyorai, and hosts most of the key ceremonies and rituals of Mount Koya.
The Miedo Hall, associated with Kobo Daishi Kukai, is a special place where a portrait of the master is enshrined. It is not usually open to the public, but can be viewed on special ceremonies.
Many visitors to Danjo Garan have reported experiencing mysterious phenomena. For instance, chanting mantras at the Aizen-do can cause the doors to shake even without wind, or praying at the Kujaku-do might suddenly bring rain.
Surrounded by the abundant nature of Mount Koya, Danjo Garan provides a deep sense of tranquility and peace. In this place where history and faith are alive, taking your time to worship will leave you with a purifying experience.
With over a thousand years of history, Danjo Garan at Mount Koya gathers the essence of Japanese Buddhist culture. By visiting here, you can feel the depth of Japanese spiritual culture and experience a quiet sense of awe.
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