Okunoin

There are three bridges in the Okunoin Cemetery. The first bridge is the entrance to the Okunoin Cemetery and is formally called the Oobashi Bridge. It is the largest bridge over the Goten River that flows through Koyasan and marks the start of the formal visit to the Okunoin Cemetery. The second bridge, called the Chozubashi Bridge, is the second bridge on the approach to the Okunoin Cemetery and is located at the midpoint. In the Heian period, people purified themselves here by washing away their sins and impurities before visiting the cemetery. The river flowing under the Chozubashi Bridge is called the "River of Gold" and symbolizes the Sanzu River, which separates the world of the living from the world of the dead. The third bridge, called the Gobyo Bridge, is located at the end of the approach to the Okunoin Cemetery and marks the entrance to the spiritual realm leading to the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi. Visitors are expected to prepare themselves and perform a ceremony before crossing the bridge. Although it was originally a wooden bridge, it has been replaced with a stone bridge. These bridges are important points to cross during a visit to the Okunoin Cemetery, and each bridge has its own history and meaning. Crossing these bridges while preparing your heart is an important part of the visit to the Okunoin Cemetery.

The approach to Okunoin stretches about 2 km from Ichinohashi Bridge to Okunoin. Along this path, about 200,000 tombstones stand amidst a forest of centuries-old cedar trees, including many belonging to famous historical figures such as the Tokugawa and Toyotomi families, Kenshin Uesugi, Nobunaga Oda, and Mitsunari Ishida. In addition to tombstones, the approach to Okunoin has various other elements, such as Jizo statues, the Koshikakeishi rock where Kobo Daishi is said to have rested, haiku and literary monuments, and unique corporate memorial towers along the path from the Okunoin-mae bus stop. By walking slowly along the approach and observing these elements, you can feel the history and culture of Okunoin. The scenery along the approach is also beautiful, and you can walk peacefully in a serene atmosphere. The Okunoin approach has become an attractive spot for those interested in history and religion.

The Lantern Hall at Okunoin is known as the main hall of the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi. This hall was built by the second generation of Koyasan, Shinzen Daikoku, and was adjusted to its current size by Fujiwara no Michinaga in 1023, during the Chian era. Inside the Lantern Hall, various lanterns are offered. Of particular note is the "Kishin-to," a lantern used to mourn the parents of the adoptive parent of the monk Kishin. This lantern was offered by the poor Oteru, who cut off her precious black hair to dedicate it along with the lantern. There are also "Shirakawa Lanterns" offered by Emperor Shirakawa. These lanterns are filled with many wishes, and the hall is filled with the sight of lanterns. The solemn atmosphere impresses visitors, not only as a place of faith, but also as a place of peace for many people. The history and sacred atmosphere will surely impress visitors deeply!

The mausoleum of Kobo Daishi in Okunoin is a place of faith where it is believed that Kobo Daishi, who founded Koyasan, remains in this world in physical form and continues to extend his helping hand to us. This mausoleum is also known as one of Japan's leading power spots and has become a sacred place of Kobo Daishi faith, visited by many worshippers. The existence of the mausoleum is special to those with deep faith, and you may feel the overflowing spiritual energy from the location. Kobo Daishi spread the teachings of Buddhism and was a great figure who gave salvation to many people. Therefore, faith in him is deep, and many people visit for pilgrimage day and night. The mausoleum of Kobo Daishi is a special place for many people because of its history and spirituality, and is an important existence as an object of faith. Visitors seek peace of mind and the fulfillment of their wishes while feeling the power from the location. The mausoleum of Kobo Daishi in Okunoin maintains its presence as a sacred place of comfort for many pilgrims.

At Okunoin, a night tour is held where participants can visit and pay their respects to Kobo Daishi Kukai after dinner until bedtime. The tour is guided by qualified "Kongobuji Temple Grounds Guide" residents of Koyasan. They are knowledgeable guides of Okunoin and explain the history and teachings of Okunoin in an easy-to-understand manner. Even those who have visited Okunoin during the day will experience a different enchanting atmosphere at night. By participating in the night tour, you can enjoy a mystical landscape and atmosphere that is different from the daytime. The Okunoin night tour will be a special experience for participants. Visiting Okunoin at night will provide an opportunity to calm your mind in a tranquil atmosphere and cultivate a deeper faith. By paying respect to Kobo Daishi Kukai in an enchanting space, you will feel even more fulfilled in your heart.