Kongobu-ji

Kongobu-ji is the head temple of the Shingon school of Buddhism on Mount Kōya and one of the most important religious complexes in Japan. Established in 1593 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in memory of his mother, it later became the central administrative and spiritual seat of Shingon Buddhism, founded by Kūkai (Kōbō Daishi) in the early 9th century. The present buildings reflect refined Momoyama and early Edo aesthetics, with vast tatami halls, subdued light, and a strong emphasis on spatial rhythm rather than ornament. Particularly striking are the painted fusuma sliding doors, whose motifs—cranes, plum blossoms, and seasonal landscapes—were intended not merely as decoration but as visual meditations on impermanence, harmony, and restraint. Adjacent to the main halls lies Banryutei Garden, the largest rock garden in Japan. Kongōbu-ji is open daily, usually from morning until late afternoon (opening hours may vary slightly by season). Admission is paid (1000 yen, Dec 2025); a common ticket is available (2500 yen, Dec 2025), covering five key sites on Mount Kōya (including Kongōbu-ji, the Kondō and the Daitō pagoda), and is a convenient option for visitors planning a broader visit. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the temple halls, though it is allowed outdoors and in the garden areas. Shoes must be removed before entering the interior spaces. A visit typically takes 60–90 minutes, allowing time for quiet contemplation of the halls and the Banryūtei rock garden.

Nestled in the serene Koyasan region of Japan, this remarkable location is surrounded by a collection of UNESCO World Heritage temples. The tranquility and peacefulness of the atmosphere are truly awe-inspiring, especially during the early morning when the streets are bathed in a gentle light. Describing its essence in words alone would be an understatement, as it evokes a profound sense of wonder and serenity.

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.

Busy and vibrant market . If you can stand the crush of the crowds then this place is a unique experience for anyone that appreciates the vast array of Japanese food. I only wish I had more appetite.

Kongobuji (金剛峯寺, Kongōbuji) was originally constructed in 1593 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi to commemorate the death of his mother. Later it was merged with a neighboring temple and reorganized into the head temple of Shingon Buddhism, the sect introduced to Japan by Kobo Daishi in 805 and headquartered on Koyasan.

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.

Beautiful Rick garden and great place to walk thru a traditional temple

Beautiful and peaceful temple in Koyasan. It was freezing inside because there isn't central heating. Overall worth it to see this site though.

Mount Koya was first settled in 816 by the monk Kukai. It is the headquarters of the Shingon sect of Japanese Buddhism. Koyasan today has over 120 temples & this is the jewel of the mountain. To get to the temple you have to pass through Okunoin cemetery which in itself is a visual treat filled with statues, mausoleums & grave markers. To say this place is beautiful doesn't do it justice. My grandmother used to make an annual trip to Mt. Koya & stay at one of the many temples. My mother took up the tradition but not annually as she lives in the states. This year, she invited me! Just in time for the 1,200 year anniversary! We blocked out at day to spend wandering around Okunoin & paying our respects to Kobo Daishi (Kukai). Okunoin (Oku-no-in) is gorgeous. Filled with unique headstones, monuments, mausoleums & even a spaceship erected for former employees of an astronautical company. The place is eerily quiet & ethereally beautiful. Some of the headstones are years old covered with moss & some look new or as my mother informed me a family member or someone hired takes care of the headstones so they look cleaner. All this nestled in & around trees that are up to 700 years old (they have markers on the trees). The mausoleum is stunning. Lit by thousands of lanterns that burn constantly since Kobo Daishi's death it is a beautiful sight. You can buy prayer cards & other things from the monks. Burning incense is very intense here, it was a fog that stung my eyes & was cloyingly strong that I had to rush through the area. My sister pointed out a mound of headstones explaining these were snuck onto the grounds, further up the mountain by families that were too poor to bury their loved ones in Okunoin. A kind hearted monk collected the headstones & placed them here on the sacred grounds, giving them the respect they deserved. There were many small statues or bodhisattvas: Jizo Bosatsu - Jizo is believed to watch over & protect children in the afterlife. The bibs are placed on the statues by those who have lost children with a prayer that Ojizo-san will watch over them as a surrogate parent. The mound of headstones & the bodhisattvas really tugged at my heart. I am so happy & honored that my mother showed me this place. I will hold this memory in my heart forever.

Other than the religious significance (head temple for Shingon Buddhism), the highlight of this temple, built in 1593, is the rock garden, the largest in Japan. Ornate silk panels inside the temple contain scenes of nature and birds. Well maintained and a sight to behold, it's worth seeing if you're in Koyasan.

Absolutely worth the effort it takes to get to Koyasan.