Koya, Buddhist temple settlement in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan
Koya is a settlement on an elevated plateau at 800 meters, surrounded by eight mountain peaks that form a natural lotus-shaped boundary. Over 120 temples are spread across the grounds and define the character of this religious community.
The Buddhist monk Kukai founded the first monastery here in 819, which gradually grew into the religious town we see today. The site expanded over centuries to become a major spiritual center of Buddhism.
This settlement serves as the center of Koyasan Buddhism, where monks practice daily rituals and meditation that have continued for centuries. Visitors can participate in these spiritual activities and experience the religious rhythm of the community.
Visitors can take the Nankai Railway from Osaka to Gokurakubashi Station and then ride the cable car up the mountain. The grounds are accessible on foot via walking paths, and spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather for exploring.
The Okunoin cemetery holds around 500,000 graves within a dense cedar forest and ranks among the world's largest cemeteries. The tombs span different eras and the surrounding woodland creates a quiet, meditative space.
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