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  • Fire ceremony at Ekoin in Koya-san. There are temples and shrines that have accommodation facilities called shukubo in Japan that attract attention not only as places to stay, but as places that let you experience Japanese culture.  Koya-san is one of the best places to experience a temple stay in Japan.  Ekoin is one of the most popular temples for this for foreign visitors.  One reason is that most of the young monks speak English, and Ekoin is well accustomed to foreign visitors.  Also Ekoin has morning prayer services and fire burning ceremonies that visitors can observe.
    koyasan-fire-ceremony-2.jpg
  • Chanting at morning prayers - Koya-san is one of the best places to experience a temple stay in Japan.  Ekoin is one of the most popular temples for this for foreign visitors.  One reason is that most of the young monks speak English, and Ekoin is well accustomed to foreign visitors.  Also Ekoin has morning prayer services and fire burning ceremonies that visitors can observe.
    koyasan-morning-prayers-1.jpg
  • Fire ceremony at Ekoin in Koya-san. Goma taki involves burning wooden plaques with prayers written on them as monks chant. Guests are asked to write their wishes on wooden plaques to be burned in the fire to burn away  excess desires; and to achieve a simple life. Fire destroys negative energies and purifies the mind, body and spirit. The fire burning ceremony is unique to the Shingon sect of Buddhism.
    koyasan-fire-ceremony-2.jpg
  • Ekoin Gate - There are temples and shrines that have accommodation facilities called "shukubo" in Japan. They used to be facilities for worshippers and followers. These shukubo have become places where anyone can stay and are attracting attention not only as places to stay, but as places that let you experience Japanese culture.  Koya-san is one of the best places to experience a temple stay in Japan.  Ekoin is one of the most popular temples for temple stays at Koyasan for foreign visitors thanks to its English-speaking monks.
    ekoin-koyasan-22.jpg
  • Tatami room at Ekoin Temple's Shukubo.  Koya-san is one of the best places to experience a temple stay in Japan.  Tatami Room at Ekoin, one of the most popular temples for this for foreign visitors.  One reason is that most of the young monks speak English, and Ekoin is well accustomed to foreign visitors.  Also Ekoin has morning prayer services and fire burning ceremonies that visitors can observe.
    fusuma-9.jpg
  • Tatami room at Ekoin Temple's Shukubo.  Koya-san is one of the best places to experience a temple stay in Japan.  Tatami Room at Ekoin, one of the most popular temples for this for foreign visitors. Ekoin has early morning prayer services and goma fire burning ceremonies that visitors can observe.
    fusuma-9.jpg
  • Certain temples that have accommodation facilities are called "shukubo" in Japan. They used to be facilities for worshippers and followers. However, they have become casual places where anyone can stay. These days, shukubo are attracting attention not only as places to stay, but as places that let you experience Japanese culture.  Koya-san is one of the best places to experience a temple stay in Japan.  Ekoin is one of the most popular temples for this for foreign visitors.  One reason is that most of the young monks speak English, and Ekoin is well accustomed to foreign visitors.
    ekoin-koyasan-20.jpg
  • Many Japanese Buddhist monks make their pilgrimage to Koyasan as well as the many other "henro" or white-clad pilgrims making their way from temple to temple.  Though the most famous trail in Japan is around Shikoku Island's 88 temples, Koya-san is another hot spot.
    japanese-monks-1.jpg
  • Henro, or Japanese Buddhist pilgrims, making their way along the sacred trails of Koya-san.  Though the most famous trail in Japan is around Shikoku Island's 88 temples, Koya-san is another hot spot.  Nowadays it is common to undertake pilgrimages in stages, completing one cycle in a number of trips; many devotees repeat the pilgrimage - even hundreds of times. Some become so addicted to the sites and the route that they spend their entire lives on the road and end their pilgrimage only in death, a memorial stone marking the ending  of their life's journey.
    henro-19.jpg
  • Many Japanese Buddhist monks make their pilgrimage to Koyasan as well as the many other "henro" or white-clad pilgrims making their way from temple to temple.  Though the most famous trail in Japan is around Shikoku Island's 88 temples, for many pilgrims Koya-san is the final stop.
    japanese-monks-1.jpg
  • Morning Prayer Drums -  Koyasan is one of the best places to experience a temple stay in Japan.  Ekoin is one of the most popular temples for this for foreign visitors.  One reason is that most of the young monks speak English, and Ekoin is well accustomed to foreign visitors.  Also Ekoin has morning prayer services and fire burning ceremonies that visitors can observe.
    koyasan-morning-prayers-4.jpg
  • Morning Prayer Drums -  Koyasan is one of the best places to experience a temple stay in Japan.  Ekoin is one of the most suitable temples for this for foreign visitors as the young monks speak English, and due to the high cost, guests can opt out of meals as a way to save on their bill.
    koyasan-morning-prayers-4.jpg
  • Young Japanese novice monk with cymbols during morning prayers at Ekoin, where visitors can observe and experience Zen Buddhism at Koyasan.
    koyasan-morning-prayers-2.jpg
  • Young Japanese novice monk with cymbols during morning prayers at Ekoin, where visitors can observe and experience Zen Buddhism at Koyasan.
    koyasan-morning-prayers-2.jpg
  • Carp Pond at Ekoin - Koyasan is one of the best places to experience a temple stay in Japan.  Carp pond and Japanese garden at Ekoin one of the more popular temples for foreign visitors at Koyasan.  One reason is that most of the young monks speak English, and Ekoin is well accustomed to foreign visitors.  Also Ekoin has morning prayer services and fire burning ceremonies that visitors can observe.
    ekoin-koyasan-14.jpg
  • Carp Pond at Ekoin - Koyasan is one of the best places to experience a temple stay in Japan.  Carp pond and Japanese garden at Ekoin one of the more popular temples for foreign visitors at Koyasan.  One reason is that most of the young monks speak English, and Ekoin is well accustomed to foreign visitors.  Also Ekoin has morning prayer services and fire burning ceremonies that visitors can observe.
    AMBER-LOTUS-2023-62.jpg
  • Carp Pond at Ekoin - Koyasan is one of the best places to experience a temple stay in Japan.  Carp pond and Japanese garden at Ekoin one of the more popular temples for foreign visitors at Koyasan.  One reason is that most of the young monks speak English, and Ekoin is well accustomed to foreign visitors.  Also Ekoin has morning prayer services and fire burning ceremonies that visitors can observe.
    ekoin-koyasan-14.jpg
  • Novice monk serving temple food or Shojin Ryori, vegetarian cuisine at its finest consisting of pickled, seasonal vegetables, a variety of tofu dishes artfully arranged on lacquerware.  Staying in a temple overnight, especially in Koyasan, is one of the best ways to get to know Japanese culture.  Part of this is experiencing "shojin ryori"
    shojin-ryori-4.jpg
  • Novice monk serving temple food or Shojin Ryori, vegetarian cuisine at its finest consisting of pickled, seasonal vegetables, a variety of tofu dishes artfully arranged on lacquerware.  Staying in a temple overnight, especially in Koyasan, is one of the best ways to get to know Japanese culture.  Part of this is experiencing "shojin ryori"
    shojin-ryori-4.jpg
  • Henro, or Japanese Buddhist pilgrims, making their way along the sacred trails of Koya-san.  Though the most famous trail in Japan is around Shikoku Island's 88 temples, Koya-san is considered to be the final destination of the pilgrimage, even though it is not in Shikoku.  Nowadays it is common to undertake pilgrimages in stages, completing one cycle in a number of trips; many devotees repeat the pilgrimage - even hundreds of times. Some become so addicted to the sites and the route that they spend their entire lives on the road and end their pilgrimage only in death, a memorial stone marking the ending  of their life's journey.
    henro-3.jpg
  • Henro, or Japanese Buddhist pilgrims, making their way along the sacred trails of Koya-san.  Though the most famous trail in Japan is around Shikoku Island's 88 temples, Koya-san is another hot spot.  Nowadays it is common to undertake pilgrimages in stages, completing one cycle in a number of trips; many devotees repeat the pilgrimage - even hundreds of times. Some become so addicted to the sites and the route that they spend their entire lives on the road and end their pilgrimage only in death, a memorial stone marking the ending  of their life's journey.
    henro-02.jpg
  • Henro Japanese Pilgrims Shop - Henro, or Japanese Buddhist pilgrims, stop for pilgrim supplies at the entrance to Okunoin.  Though the most famous trail in Japan is around Shikoku Island's 88 temples, Koya-san is another hot spot.  Nowadays it is common to undertake pilgrimages in stages, completing one cycle in a number of trips; many devotees repeat the pilgrimage - even hundreds of times. Some become so addicted to the sites and the route that they spend their entire lives on the road and end their pilgrimage only in death, a memorial stone marking the ending  of their life's journey.
    henro-01.jpg
  • Okunoin is the temple where Kobo Daishi the founder of Shingon Buddhism and one of the most revered persons in the religious history of Japan, rests in eternal meditation. It is considered one of the most sacred places in Japan. Okunoin is surrounded by Japan's largest graveyard. People from all over Japan, who wished to be buried close to Kobo Daishi, lie there, including former feudal lords, politicians and other prominent personalities. Their graves line the approaches to Okunoin for several hundred meters through the forest.
    boddhisatva.jpg
  • Okunoin is considered one of the most sacred places in Japan.  People from all over Japan wish to be buried close to Kobo Daishi, lie there, including former feudal lords, politicians and other prominent personalities. Their graves line the approaches to Okunoin for several hundred meters through the forest.
    okunoin-1.jpg
  • Henro Japanese Pilgrims Shop - Henro, or Japanese Buddhist pilgrims, stop for pilgrim supplies at the entrance to Okunoin.  Though the most famous trail in Japan is around Shikoku Island's 88 temples, Koya-san is another hot spot.  Nowadays it is common to undertake pilgrimages in stages, completing one cycle in a number of trips; many devotees repeat the pilgrimage - even hundreds of times. Some become so addicted to the sites and the route that they spend their entire lives on the road and end their pilgrimage only in death, a memorial stone marking the ending  of their life's journey.
    henro-1.jpg
  • Okunoin is one of the most sacred places in Japan. Okunoin is surrounded by Japan's largest graveyard. People from all over Japan, who wished to be buried close to Kobo Daishi, lie there, including former feudal lords, politicians and other prominent personalities. Their graves line the approaches to Okunoin for several hundred meters through the forest.
    okunoin-2.jpg
  • Gravestone in the shape of a space rocket lies at Okunoin, one of the most sacred places in Japan. Presumably this person worked the space agency or was a sci-fi fan, and wanted to be remembered this way. People from all over the country who wished to be buried close to Kobo Daishi lie there including former feudal lords, politicians and other prominent personalities. Their graves line the approaches to Okunoin for hundreds of meters throughout the forest.
    okunoin-7.jpg
  • Okunoin is Japan's largest graveyard. People from all over Japan lie buried here including former lords, politicians and other prominent folks.
    okunoin-6.jpg
  • Daimon Gate is the main entrance to Koyasan. The first structure was created in the Tsuzuraori valley and moved to the present site in the 12th century. The statues inside are called the Kongo-Rikishi or Gaurdian Deities and watch over the main entrance to Koyasan. Situated near Daimon is the entrance to the "Women's Pilgrimage Path" which goes around the outer edge of Koya town.
    daimon-koya-san-01.jpg
  • Standing at the west end of Koyasan, Daimon is the main entrance to town. The first structure was created in the Tsuzuraori valley and moved to the present site in the 12th century. The statues inside are called the Kongo-Rikishi or Gaurdian Deities and watch over the main entrance to Koyasan. Situated near Daimon is the entrance to the "Women's Pilgrimage Path" which goes around the outer edge of Koya town.
    daimon-koya-san-03.jpg
  • Moss Covered Gravestones at Okunoin - considered one of the most sacred places in Japan and is surrounded by Japan's largest graveyard. People from all over Japan, who wished to be buried close to Kobo Daishi, lie there, including former feudal lords, politicians and other prominent personalities. Their graves line the approaches to Okunoin for several hundred meters through the forest.
    okunoin-3.jpg
  • Red clad jizos dot the landscape at Okunoin,  considered one of the most sacred places in Japan. People from all over the country who wish to be buried close to Kobo Daishi lie there, including former feudal lords, politicians and other prominent personalities. Their graves line the approaches to Okunoin for several hundred meters through the forest.
    jizo-24.jpg
  • Jizo at Okunoin - considered one of the most sacred places in Japan surrounded by Japan's largest graveyard. People from all over Japan, who wish to be buried close to Kobo Daishi lie here including former feudal lords, politicians and other prominent personalities. Their graves line the approache to Okunoin through the forest.
    jizo-15.jpg
  • Red clad jizos at Okunoin,  considered one of the most sacred places in Japan. People from all over Japan, who wish to be buried close to Kobo Daishi, lie there, including former feudal lords, politicians and other prominent personalities. Their graves line the approaches to Okunoin for several hundred meters through the forest.
    jizo-23.jpg
  • Okunoin is the temple where Kobo Daishi - the founder of Shingon Buddhism and one of the most revered persons in the religious history of Japan, rests in eternal meditation. It is considered one of the most sacred places in Japan. Okunoin is surrounded by Japan's largest graveyard. People from all over Japan, who wished to be buried close to Kobo Daishi, lie there, including former feudal lords, politicians and other prominent personalities. Their graves line the approaches to Okunoin for several hundred meters through the forest.
    okunoin-4.jpg
  • Banryutei rock garden is Japan's largest Zen Garden with 140 granite stones arranged to suggest dragons emerging from clouds to protect the temple.
    banryutei-garden-2.jpg
  • Kongobuji Temple's Banryutei rock garden is Japan's largest Zen Garden with 140 granite stones arranged to suggest dragons emerging from clouds to protect the temple. It is said to be the largest karesansui dry garden in Japan.
    banryutei-garden-7.jpg
  • Banryutei rock garden at Kongobuji Temple is Japan's largest Zen Garden with one hundred and forty granite rocks arranged so as to suggest dragons emerging from clouds in order to protect the temple.
    banryutei-garden-1.jpg
  • In almost all Japanese homes, temples and restaurants, one can find fusuma, which slide from side to side to redefine spaces within a room, and also act as doors. They typically measure about the same size as a tatami mat, and are two or three centimeters thick. They consist of a wooden frame, covered in cardboard and a layer of paper. They typically have a black lacquer border and an indented door handle. Historically, fusuma were painted, often with scenes from nature such as mountains, forests or animals.
    fusuma-1.jpg
  • The construction of Daito was started by Kobo Daishi in 816 and was completed in 887 by Shinzen Daitoku. This massive structure represents the ideals of Shingon Buddhism and is known as the Fundamental Great Stupa. In Japan, this building was the first pagoda built in the tahoutou style.
    daito-koyasan-2.jpg
  • In almost all Japanese homes, temples and restaurants, one can find fusuma, which slide from side to side to redefine spaces within a room, and also act as doors. They typically measure about the same size as a tatami mat, and are two or three centimeters thick. They consist of a wooden frame, covered in cardboard and a layer of paper. They typically have a black lacquer border and an indented door handle. Historically, fusuma were painted, often with scenes from nature such as mountains, forests or animals.
    fusuma-1.jpg
  • The construction of Daito was started by Kobo Daishi in 816 and was completed in 887 by Shinzen Daitoku. This massive structure represents the ideals of Shingon Buddhism and is known as the Fundamental Great Stupa. In Japan, this building was the first pagoda built in the tahoutou style.
    daito-koyasan-2.jpg
  • Daito was started by Kobo Daishi and was completed in 887 by Shinzen Daitoku. This massive structure represents the ideals of Shingon Buddhism and is known as the Fundamental Great Stupa. In Japan, this building was the first pagoda built in the tahoutou style.
    daito-koyasan-6.jpg
  • Daito was started by Kobo Daishi and was completed in 887 by Shinzen Daitoku. This massive structure represents the ideals of Shingon Buddhism and is known as the Fundamental Great Stupa. In Japan, this building was the first pagoda built in the tahoutou style.
    daito-koyasan-6.jpg
  • Daito Stupa was started by Kobo Daishi in 816 and was completed in 887 by Shinzen Daitoku. This massive structure represents the ideals of Shingon Buddhism and is known as the Fundamental Great Stupa. In Japan, this building was the first pagoda built in the tahoutou style.
    daito-koyasan-5.jpg
  • Buddhism originated in India and spread worldwide. Today there are many different sects that have evolved from the two main branches of Buddhism. Koyasan Shingon Buddhism is one of the eighteen schools in Shingon Sect of Japanese Buddhism..Koyasan holds two major holy areas that essential to the doctrines of Shingon Buddhism. One is Okunoin, the heart of the faith, where the Mausoleum of Kobo Daishi is enshrined. The other is Danjo Garan, the precinct for religious practices. The doctrines and the tradition of Koyasan Shingon Buddhism are still carried on in this sacred mountain in the same ways that they did since 816.
    japanese-monks-2.jpg
  • Buddhism originated in India and spread worldwide. Today there are many different sects that have evolved from the two main branches of Buddhism. Koyasan Shingon Buddhism is one of the eighteen schools in Shingon Sect of Japanese Buddhism..Koyasan holds two major holy areas that essential to the doctrines of Shingon Buddhism. One is Okunoin, the heart of the faith, where the Mausoleum of Kobo Daishi is enshrined. The other is Danjo Garan, the precinct for religious practices. The doctrines and the tradition of Koyasan Shingon Buddhism are still carried on in this sacred mountain in the same ways that they did since 816.
    japanese-monks-2.jpg
  • Lotus Pond at Garan, the sacred complex of temple buildings with a red bridge and a small island is called Hasu-ike, the pond of lotus.  It is said that the a good-natured female dragon queen, Nagirajni, appeared in the Lotus Pond after a local priest, Monk Jiko of Zuisoin Monastery invited the dragon to the tiny island in the middle of the pond to help bring water during a time of severe drought.
    koya-san-bridge.jpg
  • On the eastern and on the western side of the Garan at Koyasan are a few other Stupas, other than the Great Stupa. Toto, the Eastern Stupa was destroyed during the big fire in 1843 and reconstructed in 1984.
    toto-koyasan.jpg
  • Gravestone in the shape of a coffee cup lies at Okunoin, one of the most sacred places in Japan. Presumably this person worked for UCC coffee, and wanted to be remembered this way. People from all over the country who wished to be buried close to Kobo Daishi lie there including former feudal lords, politicians and other prominent personalities. Their graves line the approaches to Okunoin for hundreds of meters throughout the forest.
    okunoin-5.jpg
  • 52.7 Jizo at Okunoin - many jizo statues are found all around Japan but especially here at Okunoin Cemetery in Koyasan, as they are guiding spirits of the dead.  They are usually shown in the form of a monk with shaved head with a red hat and/or bib. Jizo are also guardians of travelers, so pilgrims will often tidy up the jizo statues, or put on new bibs or hats as a form of veneration.  Red bibs are especially common as jizo are also guardian spirits for children.
    52.7.KII-KOYASAN-07.jpg
  • 52.7 Jizo at Okunoin - many jizo statues are found all around Japan but especially here at Okunoin Cemetery in Koyasan, as they are guiding spirits of the dead.  They are usually shown in the form of a monk with shaved head with a red hat and/or bib. Jizo are also guardians of travelers, so pilgrims will often tidy up the jizo statues, or put on new bibs or hats as a form of veneration.  Red bibs are especially common as jizo are also guardian spirits for children.
    52.7.KII-KOYASAN-08.jpg
  • 52.5 Ceremonies at Ekoin 恵光院 a temple with accommodation facilities called shukubo for pilgrims and visitors.  Such temples encourage guests to experience Japanese culture.  Koyasan is one of the best places to experience a temple stay in Japan.  Ekoin has morning prayer services and fire burning ceremonies that visitors can observe.
    52.5.KII-KOYASAN-05.jpg
  • 52.5 Ceremonies at Ekoin 恵光院 a temple with accommodation facilities called shukubo for pilgrims and visitors.  Such temples encourage guests to experience Japanese culture.  Koyasan is one of the best places to experience a temple stay in Japan.  Ekoin has morning prayer services and fire burning ceremonies that visitors can observe.
    52.5.KII-KOYASAN-06.jpg
  • Banryutei Stone Garden - Kongobuji is the head temple of the Shingon sect of Buddhism, at Koyasan.  Its name means "Temple of the Diamond Mountain" and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple's modern Banryutei rock garden is Japan's largest Zen Garden with 140 granite stones arranged to suggest dragons emerging from clouds to protect the temple.
    banryutei-garden-6.jpg
  • Banryutei Stone Garden - Kongobuji is the head temple of the Shingon sect of Buddhism, at Koyasan.  Its name means "Temple of the Diamond Mountain" and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple's modern Banryutei rock garden is Japan's largest Zen Garden with 140 granite stones arranged to suggest dragons emerging from clouds to protect the temple.
    banryutei-garden-6.jpg
  • The name 'Miedo' literally means "hall of the honorable portrait". Enshrined inside this building is a portrait of Kobo Daishi that was painted by his disciple Shinnyo. This treasured portrait is surrounded by ten other portraits of Kobo Daishi's disciple. Originally this hall was used by Kobo Daishi to enshrine his Buddhist images and for his personal spiritual training. These two facts make Miedo the most important and sacred building in Danjo Garan..This hall has been closed to the public for many years with the exception of only a few select people that are permitted to enter on special occasion.
    miedo-garan.jpg
  • 52.6 Okunoin 奥の院 is the place where Kobo Daishi - the founder of Shingon Buddhism and one of the most revered persons in the history of Japan, rests in eternal meditation.  Okunoin is considered one of the most sacred places in Japan and is surrounded by Japan's largest graveyard. People from all over Japan lie buried here, including former feudal lords, politicians and other prominent personalities.
    52.6.KII-KOYASAN-09.jpg
  • 52.1  Kompon Daito 根本大塔  was begun by Kobo Daishi in 816 and was completed in 887.  This massive structure represents the ideals of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism and is known as the Fundamental Great Stupa. In Japan, this building was the first pagoda built in the tahoutou style.
    52.1.KII-KOYASAN-01.jpg
  • Zen Garden by the Lotus Pond at Garan, the sacred complex of temple buildings in Koyasan.  The pond is crossed by a red bridge with a small island called Hasu-ike, the pond of lotus.  It is said that the a good-natured female dragon queen, Nagirajni, appeared in the Lotus Pond after a local priest, Monk Jiko of Zuisoin Monastery invited the dragon to the tiny island in the middle of the pond to help bring water during a time of severe drought.
    Hasu-Ike-garden.jpg
  • Zen Temple food or "Shojin Ryori" is Vegetarian cuisine at its finest, consisting of pickled, seasonal vegetables, a variety of tofu dishes artfully arranged on lacquerware.  Staying in a temple overnight, especially in Koyasan, is one of the best ways to get to know Japanese culture.  Part of this is experiencing "shojin ryori"
    shojin-ryori-3.jpg
  • Zen Temple food or "Shojin Ryori" is Vegetarian cuisine at its finest, consisting of pickled, seasonal vegetables, a variety of tofu dishes artfully arranged on lacquerware.  Staying in a temple overnight, especially in Koyasan, is one of the best ways to get to know Japanese culture.  Part of this is experiencing "shojin ryori"
    shojin-ryori-3.jpg
  • Kongobuji is the head temple of the Shingon sect of Buddhism, located on Mount Koya. Its name means "Temple of the Diamond Mountain" and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    kongobuji-temple-2.jpg
  • Kongobuji Temple Gate - Kongobuji is the head temple of the Shingon sect of Buddhism, located on Mount Koya. Its name means "Temple of the Diamond Mountain" and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    kongobuji-temple-1.jpg
  • Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range of Japan. The Kumano Kodo route connects it to Hongu Taisha Shrine, Hayatama Taisha Shrine, and Koya-san Wakayama Prefecture.  Even today Japanese henro pilgrims trek these routes, visiting these historically important shrines and temples.  Serious henro travel to all three sites to complete their pilgrimage. Kumano Nachi Taisha is surrounded by cedar forests, a sacred camphor tree and is located next to Tach Waterfall and Seigantoji Temple Pagoda.
    nachi-taisha-2.jpg
  • Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range of Japan. The Kumano Kodo route connects it to Hongu Taisha Shrine, Hayatama Taisha Shrine, and Koya-san Wakayama Prefecture.  Even today Japanese henro pilgrims trek these routes, visiting these historically important shrines and temples.  Serious henro travel to all three sites to complete their pilgrimage. Kumano Nachi Taisha is surrounded by cedar forests, a sacred camphor tree and is located next to Tach Waterfall and Seigantoji Temple Pagoda.
    nachi-taisha-3.jpg
  • Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine & Nachi Waterfall are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range of Japan. The Kumano Kodo route connects it to Hongu Taisha Shrine, Hayatama Taisha Shrine, and Koya-san Wakayama Prefecture.  Even today Japanese henro pilgrims trek these routes, visiting these historically important shrines and temples.  Serious henro travel to all three sites to complete their pilgrimage. Kumano Nachi Taisha is surrounded by cedar forests, a sacred camphor tree and is located next to Tach Waterfall and Seigantoji Temple Pagoda.
    nachi-taisha-4.jpg
  • Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range of Japan. The Kumano Kodo route connects it to Hongu Taisha Shrine, Hayatama Taisha Shrine, and Koya-san Wakayama Prefecture.  Even today Japanese henro pilgrims trek these routes, visiting these historically important shrines and temples.  Serious henro travel to all three sites to complete their pilgrimage. Kumano Nachi Taisha is surrounded by cedar forests, a sacred camphor tree and is located next to Tach Waterfall and Seigantoji Temple Pagoda.
    nachi-taisha-1.jpg
  • Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine & Nachi Waterfall are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range of Japan. The Kumano Kodo route connects it to Hongu Taisha Shrine, Hayatama Taisha Shrine, and Koya-san Wakayama Prefecture.  Even today Japanese henro pilgrims trek these routes, visiting these historically important shrines and temples.  Serious henro travel to all three sites to complete their pilgrimage. Kumano Nachi Taisha is surrounded by cedar forests, a sacred camphor tree and is located next to Tach Waterfall and Seigantoji Temple Pagoda.
    nachi-taisha-5.jpg
  • 52.3 Kongobuji 金剛峯寺 - Temple of the Diamond Mountain Peak, the head of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism in Japan, was originally founded by warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi to commemorate the death of his mother.  Besides its famous dry landscape garden and its association with Kobo Daishi, the temple is renowned for its many gold leaf sliding door fusuma with artwork displaying the life of Kobo Daishi, who was one of the leading figures Japanese history.
    52.3.KII-KOYASAN-03.jpg
  • 52.4 Henro 遍路 is the Japanese word for pilgrim - they are recognizable by their white clothing, sedge hats and special walking sticks with bells. Koyasan is linked to the Kii Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails and the followers of Kobo Daishi who is buried at Koyasan.
    52.4.KII-KOYASAN-04.jpg
  • Shoji silhouette at Ekoin Temple, Koyasan. In traditional Japanese architecture, a shoji is a door, window or room divider consisting of translucent paper over a frame of wood or bamboo. Shoji doors are designed to slide open, and thus conserve space that would be required by a swinging door. They are used in traditional houses especially in the washitsu  or Japanese-style room.
    shoji-5.jpg
  • Japanese Slippers carefully placed for guests arrival at "engawa" or entrance.  Visitors to Japanese homes and temples are required to remove their shoes at the entrance, replacing them with hallway slippers such as these before entering.  Many young Japanese are happy to ignore the slippers and just walk around in ther sock or barefoot except in colder months.
    japanese-slippers-2.jpg
  • Zentsuji in Kagawa Prefecture in northern Shikoku near Takamatsu is number 75 and the largest of the 88 Sacred Temples of Shikoku - an ancient pilgrimage route that circles the island of Shikoku. The temple was the home of Kobo Daishi (Kukai), the founder of the Koyasan temple complex in Wakayama and one of the most influential Buddhist priests in Japanese history. Kobo Daishi is reputed to have been born in the area and to have grown up in the temple.
    henro-17.jpg
  • Okuboji is the 88th temple on the pilgrimage route of the 88 Shikoku Holy Places and the last temple of the 88. It is dedicated to getting rid of bad luck, and to grant your wishes. It is called the 'Temple of Wish Fulfillment'. Next to the cave is a spring where pristine water bubbles. As this is the last sacred spot along the pilgrimage, many people leave their pilgrim staffs here once they have completed their journey, and dedicate their staffs to all pilgrims who have completed the route.  Although Okuboji is the 88th and final stop, most pilgrims feel that the entire journey has not yet been completed until they pass by temple number one, then onto Koyasan afterwards.
    okuboji-8.jpg
  • Ryozenji Temple Henro Pilgrims, Temple Number 1 - Ryozenji Temple, located in Naruto town is the starting point of the legendary Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage.  This epic 1200 kilometer journey takes pilgrims to 88 temples scattered across the island of Shikoku.  The temple was founded in the early eighth century and has served as the first temple on the pilgrimage route since 1687.  Because many pilgrims complete their journey at Koyasan, Ryozen-ji serves as both the start and end of the Shikoku pilgrimage. The temple shop sells white robes & pilgrim accessories: woven hats, walking sticks and bells that pilgrims traditionally use.  Besides all that the temple grounds are laid out with a sumptuous pond garden
    ryozenji-13.jpg
  • Ryozenji Temple, located in Naruto town is the starting point of the legendary Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage.  This epic 1200 kilometer journey takes pilgrims to 88 temples scattered across the island of Shikoku.  The temple was founded in the early eighth century and has served as the first temple on the pilgrimage route since 1687.  Because many pilgrims complete their journey at Koyasan, Ryozen-ji serves as both the start and end of the Shikoku pilgrimage. The temple shop sells white robes & pilgrim accessories: woven hats, walking sticks and bells that pilgrims traditionally use.  Besides all that the temple grounds are laid out with a sumptuous pond garden
    ryozenji-10.jpg
  • Okuboji is the 88th temple on the pilgrimage route of the 88 Shikoku Holy Places and the last temple of the 88. It is dedicated to getting rid of bad luck, and to grant your wishes. It is called the 'Temple of Wish Fulfillment'. Next to the cave is a spring where pristine water bubbles. As this is the last sacred spot along the pilgrimage, many people leave their pilgrim staffs here once they have completed their journey, and dedicate their staffs to all pilgrims who have completed the route.  Although Okuboji is the 88th and final stop, most pilgrims feel that the entire journey has not yet been completed until they pass by temple number one, then onto Koyasan afterwards.
    okuboji-1.jpg
  • Zentsuji is number 75 and the largest of all the 88 Sacred Temples of Shikoku - an ancient pilgrimage route that circles the island of Shikoku.  The temple was the home of Kobo Daishi (Kukai), the founder of the Koyasan temple complex in Wakayama and one of the most influential Buddhist priests in Japanese history. Kobo Daishi is reputed to have been born in the area and to have grown up in this temple.
    Zentsuji-4.jpg
  • Ryozenji Temple, located in Naruto town is the starting point of the legendary Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage.  This epic 1200 kilometer journey takes pilgrims to 88 temples scattered across the island of Shikoku.  The temple was founded in the early eighth century and has served as the first temple on the pilgrimage route since 1687.  Because many pilgrims complete their journey at Koyasan, Ryozen-ji serves as both the start and end of the Shikoku pilgrimage. The temple shop sells white robes & pilgrim accessories: woven hats, walking sticks and bells that pilgrims traditionally use.  Besides all that the temple grounds are laid out with a sumptuous pond garden
    ryozenji-8.jpg
  • Ryozenji Temple, located in Naruto town is the starting point of the legendary Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage.  This epic 1200 kilometer journey takes pilgrims to 88 temples scattered across the island of Shikoku.  The temple was founded in the early eighth century and has served as the first temple on the pilgrimage route since 1687.  Because many pilgrims complete their journey at Koyasan, Ryozen-ji serves as both the start and end of the Shikoku pilgrimage. The temple shop sells white robes & pilgrim accessories: woven hats, walking sticks and bells that pilgrims traditionally use.  Besides all that the temple grounds are laid out with a sumptuous pond garden
    ryozenji-2.jpg
  • Rakan Disciples at Okuboji - the 88th temple on the pilgrimage route of the 88 Shikoku Holy Places and the last temple of the 88. It is dedicated to getting rid of bad luck, and to grant your wishes. It is called the 'Temple of Wish Fulfillment'. Next to the cave is a spring where pristine water bubbles. As this is the last sacred spot along the pilgrimage, many people leave their pilgrim staffs here once they have completed their journey, and dedicate their staffs to all pilgrims who have completed the route.  Although Okuboji is the 88th and final stop, most pilgrims feel that the entire journey has not yet been completed until they pass by temple number one, then onto Koyasan afterwards.
    okuboji-2.jpg
  • Rakan Disciples at Okuboji - the 88th temple on the pilgrimage route of the 88 Shikoku Holy Places and the last temple of the 88. It is dedicated to getting rid of bad luck, and to grant your wishes. It is called the 'Temple of Wish Fulfillment'. Next to the cave is a spring where pristine water bubbles. As this is the last sacred spot along the pilgrimage, many people leave their pilgrim staffs here once they have completed their journey, and dedicate their staffs to all pilgrims who have completed the route.  Although Okuboji is the 88th and final stop, most pilgrims feel that the entire journey has not yet been completed until they pass by temple number one, then onto Koyasan afterwards.
    okuboji-9.jpg
  • Ryozenji Temple, located in Naruto town is the starting point of the legendary Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage.  This epic 1200 kilometer journey takes pilgrims to 88 temples scattered across the island of Shikoku.  The temple was founded in the early eighth century and has served as the first temple on the pilgrimage route since 1687.  Because many pilgrims complete their journey at Koyasan, Ryozen-ji serves as both the start and end of the Shikoku pilgrimage. The temple shop sells white robes & pilgrim accessories: woven hats, walking sticks and bells that pilgrims traditionally use.  Besides all that the temple grounds are laid out with a sumptuous pond garden
    ryozenji-3.jpg
  • Ryozenji Temple Henro Pilgrims, Temple Number 1 - Ryozenji Temple, located in Naruto town is the starting point of the legendary Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage.  This epic 1200 kilometer journey takes pilgrims to 88 temples scattered across the island of Shikoku.  The temple was founded in the early eighth century and has served as the first temple on the pilgrimage route since 1687.  Because many pilgrims complete their journey at Koyasan, Ryozen-ji serves as both the start and end of the Shikoku pilgrimage. The temple shop sells white robes & pilgrim accessories: woven hats, walking sticks and bells that pilgrims traditionally use.  Besides all that the temple grounds are laid out with a sumptuous pond garden
    ryozenji-14.jpg
  • Ryozenji Temple, located in Naruto town is the starting point of the legendary Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage.  This epic 1200 kilometer journey takes pilgrims to 88 temples scattered across the island of Shikoku.  The temple was founded in the early eighth century and has served as the first temple on the pilgrimage route since 1687.  Because many pilgrims complete their journey at Koyasan, Ryozen-ji serves as both the start and end of the Shikoku pilgrimage. The temple shop sells white robes & pilgrim accessories: woven hats, walking sticks and bells that pilgrims traditionally use.  Besides all that the temple grounds are laid out with a sumptuous pond garden
    ryozenji-8.jpg
  • Ryozenji Temple, located in Naruto town is the starting point of the legendary Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage.  This epic 1200 kilometer journey takes pilgrims to 88 temples scattered across the island of Shikoku.  The temple was founded in the early eighth century and has served as the first temple on the pilgrimage route since 1687.  Because many pilgrims complete their journey at Koyasan, Ryozen-ji serves as both the start and end of the Shikoku pilgrimage. The temple shop sells white robes & pilgrim accessories: woven hats, walking sticks and bells that pilgrims traditionally use.  Besides all that the temple grounds are laid out with a sumptuous pond garden
    ryozenji-3.jpg
  • Gumyoji Temple is one of the oldest temples in Yokohama. The main deity in this temple is called Gumyoji Kannon.  Gumyoji Kannon temple is number 14 in the 33 Kannon temples of the Kanto pilgrimage circuit.  Hondo - the main worship hall at Gumyoji was built during the Heian period and was officially opened in 1044. The Kannon statue was carved when the original Hondo was built.  Because of its historical significance this statue is designated as an important cultural asset of the Japan.  At the main entrance of the temple are Jizo statues.  Gumyoji belongs to the Koyasan Shingon sect of Buddhism.
    gumyoji-jizo-05.jpg
  • Gumyoji Temple is one of the oldest temples in Yokohama. The main deity in this temple is called Gumyoji Kannon.  Gumyoji Kannon temple is number 14 in the 33 Kannon temples of the Kanto pilgrimage circuit.  Hondo - the main worship hall at Gumyoji was built during the Heian period and was officially opened in 1044. The Kannon statue was carved when the original Hondo was built.  Because of its historical significance this statue is designated as an important cultural asset of the Japan.  At the main entrance of the temple are Jizo statues.  Gumyoji belongs to the Koyasan Shingon sect of Buddhism.
    gumyo-ji-03.jpg
  • Zentsuji in Kagawa Prefecture in northern Shikoku near Takamatsu is number 75 and the largest of the 88 Sacred Temples of Shikoku - an ancient pilgrimage route that circles the island of Shikoku.  The temple was the home of Kobo Daishi (Kukai), the founder of the Koyasan temple complex in Wakayama and one of the most influential Buddhist priests in Japanese history. Kobo Daishi is reputed to have been born in the area and to have grown up in the temple.
    zentsuji-3.jpg
  • Zentsuji in Kagawa Prefecture in northern Shikoku near Takamatsu is number 75 and the largest of the 88 Sacred Temples of Shikoku - an ancient pilgrimage route that circles the island of Shikoku.  The temple was the home of Kobo Daishi (Kukai), the founder of the Koyasan temple complex in Wakayama and one of the most influential Buddhist priests in Japanese history. Kobo Daishi is reputed to have been born in the area and to have grown up in the temple.
    zentsuji-4.jpg
  • Okuboji is the 88th temple on the pilgrimage route of the 88 Shikoku Holy Places and the last temple of the 88. It is dedicated to getting rid of bad luck, and to grant your wishes. It is called the 'Temple of Wish Fulfillment'. Next to the cave is a spring where pristine water bubbles. As this is the last sacred spot along the pilgrimage, many people leave their pilgrim staffs here once they have completed their journey, and dedicate their staffs to all pilgrims who have completed the route.  Although Okuboji is the 88th and final stop, most pilgrims feel that the entire journey has not yet been completed until they pass by temple number one, then onto Koyasan afterwards.
    okuboji-11.jpg
  • Temple Gate at Okuboji -  the 88th temple on the pilgrimage route of the 88 Shikoku Holy Places and the last temple of the 88. It is dedicated to getting rid of bad luck, and to grant your wishes. It is called the 'Temple of Wish Fulfillment'. Next to the cave is a spring where pristine water bubbles. As this is the last sacred spot along the pilgrimage, many people leave their pilgrim staffs here once they have completed their journey, and dedicate their staffs to all pilgrims who have completed the route.  Although Okuboji is the 88th and final stop, most pilgrims feel that the entire journey has not yet been completed until they pass by temple number one, then onto Koyasan afterwards.
    okuboji-12.jpg
  • Zentsuji is number 75 and the largest of all the 88 Sacred Temples of Shikoku - an ancient pilgrimage route that circles the island of Shikoku.  The temple was the home of Kobo Daishi (Kukai), the founder of the Koyasan temple complex in Wakayama and one of the most influential Buddhist priests in Japanese history. Kobo Daishi is reputed to have been born in the area and to have grown up in this temple.
    Zentsuji-3.jpg
  • Ryozenji Temple Henro Pilgrims, Temple Number 1 - Ryozenji Temple, located in Naruto town is the starting point of the legendary Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage.  This epic 1200 kilometer journey takes pilgrims to 88 temples scattered across the island of Shikoku.  The temple was founded in the early eighth century and has served as the first temple on the pilgrimage route since 1687.  Because many pilgrims complete their journey at Koyasan, Ryozen-ji serves as both the start and end of the Shikoku pilgrimage. The temple shop sells white robes & pilgrim accessories: woven hats, walking sticks and bells that pilgrims traditionally use.  Besides all that the temple grounds are laid out with a sumptuous pond garden
    ryozenji-6.jpg
  • Ryozenji Temple, located in Naruto town is the starting point of the legendary Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage.  This epic 1200 kilometer journey takes pilgrims to 88 temples scattered across the island of Shikoku.  The temple was founded in the early eighth century and has served as the first temple on the pilgrimage route since 1687.  Because many pilgrims complete their journey at Koyasan, Ryozen-ji serves as both the start and end of the Shikoku pilgrimage. The temple shop sells white robes & pilgrim accessories: woven hats, walking sticks and bells that pilgrims traditionally use.  Besides all that the temple grounds are laid out with a sumptuous pond garden
    ryozenji-10.jpg
  • 53. The Kumano Kodo 熊野古道 is a network of pilgrimage routes, trekked for centuries by the Japanese from all levels of society. Kumano has been sacred since prehistoric times, associated with animism in which mountains and water are key elements in shaping the Japanese sense of spirituality.  Kumano is considered to be the abode of the gods by the Japanese.  Along the Kumano Kodo pilgrims walk through leafy paths deep into the mountains every year to purify themselves, praying to deities dwelling in the trees and rocks. Over time, hiking the Kumano Kodo became less of an animistic or Shinto rite, especially after followers of Kobo Daishi made it into a Shingon Buddhist pilgrimage route.  Koyasan is also considered to be a major stop before or after the Shikoku Pilgrimage Trail.  In modern times, tourists have largely replaced pilgrims.
    53.KII-KUMANO-KODO-02.jpg
  • Gumyoji Temple is one of the oldest temples in Yokohama. The main deity in this temple is called Gumyoji Kannon.  Gumyoji Kannon temple is number 14 in the 33 Kannon temples of the Kanto pilgrimage circuit.  Hondo - the main worship hall at Gumyoji was built during the Heian period and was officially opened in 1044. The Kannon statue was carved when the original Hondo was built.  Because of its historical significance this statue is designated as an important cultural asset of the Japan.  At the main entrance of the temple are Jizo statues.  Gumyoji belongs to the Koyasan Shingon sect of Buddhism.
    gumyoji-jizo-04.jpg
  • Gumyoji Temple is one of the oldest temples in Yokohama. The main deity in this temple is called Gumyoji Kannon.  Gumyoji Kannon temple is number 14 in the 33 Kannon temples of the Kanto pilgrimage circuit.  Hondo - the main worship hall at Gumyoji was built during the Heian period and was officially opened in 1044. The Kannon statue was carved when the original Hondo was built.  Because of its historical significance this statue is designated as an important cultural asset of the Japan.  At the main entrance of the temple are Jizo statues.  Gumyoji belongs to the Koyasan Shingon sect of Buddhism.
    gumyo-ji-04.jpg
  • Five Storey Pagoda at Zentsuji in Kagawa Prefecture is number 75 and the largest of the 88 Sacred Temples of Shikoku - an ancient pilgrimage route that circles the island of Shikoku.  The temple was the home of Kobo Daishi (Kukai), the founder of the Koyasan temple complex in Wakayama and one of the most influential Buddhist priests in Japanese history. Kobo Daishi is reputed to have been born in the area and to have grown up in the temple.
    zentsuji-2.jpg
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