Mountain Haven, Koyasan
Koyasan- sacred, traditional and somewhat mysterious- was one of the most rewarding places we visited in Japan. If nature indeed brings mankind closer to the cosmos, then Koyasan is its embodiment.
In the year 816 AD, a monk by the name of Kukai founded Shingon Buddhism and the monastery complex known as Koyasan. Located in the lush Koya-Ryujin Quasi-National Park, it is said that the 8 peaks and basin resemble a lotus, making it an auspicious location. For over 1,200 years Koyasan has flourished as an active monastic center, and is one of Japan’s most sacred sites.
For a culturally illuminating encounter, staying overnight at one of the 52 temples offering accommodations is an experience of a lifetime. Each temple’s design uniquely showcases aspects of Japanese philosophy and aesthetics. All visitors are welcome, and can not only see the inner workings of Shingon monastic life, they can also take part. To enter the quietude, practices such as meditation (ajikan), listening to sutra teachings and a calligraphic sutra copying practice (shakyo) are offered.
In the year 816 AD, a monk by the name of Kukai founded Shingon Buddhism and the monastery complex known as Koyasan. Located in the lush Koya-Ryujin Quasi-National Park, it is said that the 8 peaks and basin resemble a lotus, making it an auspicious location. For over 1,200 years Koyasan has flourished as an active monastic center, and is one of Japan’s most sacred sites.
For a culturally illuminating encounter, staying overnight at one of the 52 temples offering accommodations is an experience of a lifetime. Each temple’s design uniquely showcases aspects of Japanese philosophy and aesthetics. All visitors are welcome, and can not only see the inner workings of Shingon monastic life, they can also take part. To enter the quietude, practices such as meditation (ajikan), listening to sutra teachings and a calligraphic sutra copying practice (shakyo) are offered.
