Koyasan Kongobuji Temple Okunoin

Okunoin of Koyasan Shingon Buddhism’s head temple Kongobu-ji is a sacred site where Kobo Daishi is said to be in eternal meditation, and it is designated as a World Heritage site. The formal approach begins from "Ichinohashi" (First Bridge), as it is believed that Kobo Daishi welcomes worshippers there and sees them off on their return. The roughly 2 km path to the mausoleum is lined with towering cedar trees, some said to be around a thousand years old, as well as more than 200,000 grave markers, memorial monuments, and cenotaphs of feudal lords and others—creating a solemn atmosphere that offers a cleansing, unforgettable experience. Access: get off at Nankai Koya Line "Gokurakubashi Station," transfer to the Nankai Koyasan Cable Car to "Koyasan Station," then take the Nankai Rinkan Bus. If you want to do a full, traditional visit, get off at "Ichinohashi-guchi"; if you want to focus mainly on Okunoin, get off at "Okunoin-mae." Near Gobyo-bashi Bridge there is a building where visitors can rest; you can enjoy tea while listening to monks’ talks. If you collect goshuin (temple stamps), you can receive one at "Okunoin Okuyosho."