Kongobu-ji

It is the head temple of Kōyasan Shingon Buddhism, located on Mount Kōya, Wakayama Prefecture. Temple was first constructed as Seigan-ji Temple in 1593. The temple's modern rock garden is Japan's largest (2340 square meters), with 140 granite stones arranged to suggest a pair of dragons emerging from clouds to protect the temple. Popular place, need to go early. Fair bit of walking mostly under shade. Lots of locals, some tourists and pilgrims. Wear comfy shoes, take water, wear hat, sunscreen. Fee charged for entry. Great place for photography.

A very famous Japanese mountain, very famous for its temples. In any case, it's worth a visit. It's not easy to get there, but it's worth it. Beautiful nature with all those temples. More than 1000 m above the sea.

An exquisite visit. If you want to escape the crowded Osaka tourist vibe, Koya-san will realign you to nature and serenity.

Wow, what a great temple to visit! We visited on a Sunday but it wasn’t crowded. Good to know: Tickets costs 1000 yen, you can pay inside and you need to take of your shoes (but they have slippers)

A large temple with no need to line up, but you do need to take off your shoes to enter. You can get a glimpse of how monks lived in the past, and it’s said to be the place where Kobo Daishi practiced.

Beautiful place, rich with history. Totally worth a visit.

Beautiful temple with some lovely art, although some additional written information in english may beneficial if a larger tourist group. Worthwhile visit, and 200y saving if using the heritage ticket (1000>800 at time of review).

A designated National Treasure built in the Edo period, Kongobuji Temple at Koyasan is more than just another place of spiritual worship. The larger purpose of the temple is to serve as the headquarters of the Buddhist Shingon sect, founded by the monk Kobo Daishi, whose mausoleum can be found at nearby Okunoin Temple. Koyasan dates back to 816 and Kongobuji Temple was built in 1593, then rebuilt in 1863. While it is architecturally satisfying from the outside, take off your shoes and step through the doors and you'll be rewarded by Kongobuji Temple's beautiful interior. We were also able to view the Koya Fire Festival (Spring ceremony for the opening of the climbing season at Mt. Koya, and the Buddhist rite of cedar-stick burning) 🔥