The sacred Kongobuji Temple is the ecclesiastic head temple of Koyasan Shingon Buddhism. It is located in the temple settlement of Mount Koya in the Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. The temple was originally constructed in 1593 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, later it was merged with a neighbouring temple and recognised as the head temple.
It is the headquarters of the Buddhist Shingon sect, founded by the monk Kobo Daishi. The architecture of the temple is quite majestic, it has many rooms decorated with graceful cranes, elaborately carved flowers, and sweeping plum and willow. There is a beautiful garden in the vicinity, Banryutei Rock Garden, and immaculately preserved natural beauty.
There is an extravagant Jodanna Audience Room which was the hosting place for dignitaries. Visitors can also visit Kongobuji’s kitchen which houses enormous hearth and kamado stoves, large enough to feed up to accommodate 2000 people.
Highlights
• Admire the beautiful architecture of the Kongobuji Temple.
• Offer your prayers in the temple and meditate for a peaceful experience.
• Explore the Banryu Tei Rock Garden just outside the temple.
• Visit the temple’s museum, its big kitchen, and its extravagant audience room.
• Immerse yourself in a spiritual and religious experience by exploring the other temples in Koyasan.
How To Reach
Kongobuji Temple is located in the centre of Koyasan and is just a few metres away from the centre point.
1. By Foot: Kongobuji Temple is literally in the heart of Koyasan and is 600 metres from the centre of Koyasan. You can walk up to the site while enjoying the streets of Koyasan. It is a 10-minute walk.
2. By Car/Taxi: If you have a rented car or have booked a taxi, then it is a 2-minute drive from the centre point of Koyasan to Kongobuji Temple.
Best Time To Visit
Kongobuji Temple is open all year round, all days from morning 8 AM to evening 5 PM. The last admission into the temple is at 4:30 PM. The entry fee to explore the temple is 500 yen.
1. Best Season to Visit: The spring and autumn season in Koyasan is particularly very beautiful with mild weather, and the cherry blossoms blooming. The best season to visit Kongobuji Temple is during these seasons for a memorable experience.
2. Best Day of the Week: Weekdays are peaceful in comparison to weekends, so if you want to enjoy a quiet time exploring the site, weekdays are preferable.
3. Best Time of the Day: Early mornings are the best time to witness the true serenity this exquisite temple has to offer. You get a good time to explore the place and can enjoy its pleasant surroundings.
Other Essential Information
- Remove your shoes before entering the temple.
- Eating and drinking inside the temple’s premises is forbidden.
- Carry a light jacket as Mount Kayo is a bit chilly in the mornings and evenings.
- If you want to participate in religious ceremonies or meditation, check the schedule in advance.
Learn About Shingon Buddhism & Participate in Religious Ceremonies
Enrol for lectures and workshops, in advance, to learn about the preachings and practices of Shingon Buddhism. You can also join the monks in their morning chanting and prayers for a serene spiritual experience, and witness the traditional Japanese religious rituals.
Experience Shojin Ryori and Temple Lodging
Your visit to Kongobuji Temple is incomplete without tasting Shojin Ryori, the traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine. This healthy and delicious meal reflects the temple's spiritual ethos and is crafted from seasonal ingredients. For a deeper experience, stay overnight at the temple's lodging (Shukubo). This unique experience includes participation in temple activities, such as morning prayers and meditation. Overall, it provides a full retreat into the peaceful and reflective lifestyle of the monks.
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