Danjo Garan

Located within the Danjo Garan complex, the Fundamental Pagoda is a symbolic building that embodies the teachings of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism. Standing at approximately 50 meters tall, this tower is the central figure of Koyasan and plays an important role as an object of worship. Inside the Fundamental Pagoda, a three-dimensional mandala world spreads out. A mandala is a painting or image based on esoteric Buddhist thought that expresses the laws of the universe and the teachings of Buddhism. Upon entering the Fundamental Pagoda, you can experience the world of the mandala through the intricately carved and decorated walls. The Fundamental Pagoda is a symbolic presence of Koyasan and attracts many visitors and believers as an object of worship. Its magnificent appearance and three-dimensional mandala world inside are a beautiful expression that combines sophisticated craftsmanship and the teachings of esoteric Buddhism. When visiting the Danjo Garan, be sure to visit the Fundamental Pagoda and experience its sacred atmosphere and beauty!

The Chumon Gate of the Danjo Garan is located in front of the main hall of the Kondo, and stands as a two-story, five-bay tower gate. The gate was destroyed in a fire in 1843, but was rebuilt in 2014 to celebrate the 1200th anniversary of the founding of Koyasan. Inside the gate, the Mokoku Ten and Tamon Ten statues, originally enshrined in the gate, were once again enshrined, and at the same time, the Zochoten and Kokuzo Bosatsu statues were newly created. These Buddhist statues were spared from the fire and were carefully re-enshrined during the rebuilding process. Currently, the gate is guarded by the Shitennou statues, watching over the entire Garan. Its magnificent appearance and the presence of the rebuilt Buddhist statues symbolize the depth of history and faith of the Danjo Garan. For visitors, the Chumon Gate is a place of grand scale and solemn atmosphere. When you visit the Danjo Garan, please feel the beauty and historical significance of the Chumon Gate!

The Golden Hall of the Danjo Garan is considered the main hall of Koyasan as a whole. Originally constructed by Kobo Daishi (also known as Kukai) during the founding of Koyasan, it was called the "Kodo" in ancient times. However, from the mid-Heian period, it began to play an important role as the main hall. The current Golden Hall was completed in 1932 after seven reconstructions. Inside, there are wall paintings by Kimura Takesan, a disciple of Okakura Tenshin. The grand scale and fine coloring techniques express the teachings of Buddhism and the sacred world. Additionally, the main statue of the Golden Hall, the Acala Buddha, was created by Takamura Ko-un, a Buddhist sculptor who introduced modern wood carving techniques and had a great influence on the world of wood carving. Its delicate carving technique and beautiful expression fascinate many visitors. The Golden Hall is the central presence of Koyasan, embodying the faith of Buddhism and its historical value. For visitors, the Golden Hall is a place where solemn atmosphere and beautiful works of art are harmonized. Please visit the Golden Hall and experience its majestic appearance and rich spirituality!

The snake-like road of Danjo Garan is a path that extends from the entrance of Danjo Garan to the east side of the east tower. The name comes from the fact that when Kukai, also known as Kobo Daishi, compared Danjo Garan to a lying dragon, the path corresponds to the belly of the dragon, hence the name "snake-like road". Especially in the autumn season, a beautiful tunnel of autumn leaves covers the snake-like road. The sight is a vivid and stunning view that seems to fill the sky, captivating visitors. Passing through the tunnel of autumn leaves feels like entering a different world with a fantastic landscape. The snake-like road is known not only as an approach to Danjo Garan but also as a spot to enjoy the beauty of nature in each season. Walking along the path, you can enjoy the scenery of each season and give visitors a sense of peace and inspiration.

The bell in the grand tower of the Danjo Garan was cast at the request of Kobo Daishi and completed during the Jichin Daishi era. However, the bell tower suffered from several fires and was recast three times. The current copper bell was completed in 1547 and was the fourth largest bell in Japan at the time, with a diameter of 2.12 meters. As a result, the bell came to be known as "Koyashiro." Even today, the bell in the grand tower of the Danjo Garan resonates with the sound of the bell five times a day at 4 a.m., 1 p.m., 5 p.m., 9 p.m., and 11 p.m. This serves as a traditional time signal, informing local people and visitors of the time, as well as playing a role in calming and enlightening the spirit. Its profound sound echoes through the quiet mountains, creating a solemn atmosphere. By listening to the sound of the bell, one's heart is purified, and one can feel the weight of Koyasan's spirituality and history. When you visit the Danjo Garan, why not listen carefully to the sound of the grand tower's bell?