Hōju-in

Hōju-in is a Buddhist temple on Mount Kōya featuring traditional Japanese wooden buildings and meditation halls nestled within the sacred mountain complex. The structure preserves classic design elements from ancient times and remains actively used by a monastic community.

The temple was founded in the 9th century as part of Kōbō Daishi's establishment of Shingon Buddhism on the mountain. The complex expanded over centuries and became integral to how Buddhist teachings developed in Japan.

The temple functions as a living spiritual center where monks conduct daily rituals and visitors can observe traditional Buddhist practices in action. The spaces convey a connection to contemplative life that remains central to the mountain's purpose.

The temple can be reached via cable car from Kōya station at the mountain's base. Early morning visits offer a quieter experience before most day-trippers arrive.

The temple houses a significant collection of handwritten Buddhist texts showing how different schools exchanged ideas with one another. These manuscripts are now rare and offer insight into the mountain's intellectual history.