Koyasan Kongobuji Temple Danjo Garan

Danjo Garan is the area within Kongobu-ji (head temple of the Koyasan Shingon sect) where many of the main halls are clustered. When Kobo Daishi founded Koyasan, this was the first place he began developing. Many temple buildings are densely gathered here, and after the completion (rakkei) of the "Kondo" (Golden Hall), the "Konpon Daito" (Great Pagoda) was constructed. The Konpon Daito stands at the center of the complex and embodies the fundamental principles of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism. Inside, the "three-dimensional mandala" (rittai mandara) is so gorgeously magnificent and powerful that it overwhelms viewers—making it one of the most popular highlights within Kongobu-ji. Access: get off at Nankai Koya Line "Gokurakubashi Station," take the Nankai Koyasan Cable Car to "Koyasan Station," then ride the Nankai Rinkan Bus. There are two entrances to Danjo Garan: the "Chumon" gate and the "Jabara-michi" path. If you are visiting after worshiping at Kongobu-ji, getting off at the "Kongobu-ji-mae" stop is convenient; if you plan to stop by the Koyasan Reihokan Museum or Daishi Kyokai first, getting off at "Kondo-mae" is the closest and recommended. If you collect goshuin, you can receive one at the "Okuyosho" (offering office) in front of the "Bell of the Great Pagoda" (Daito no Kane), located before the Konpon Daito.