Kōyasan chōishi-michi, Pilgrimage trail in Ito district, Japan.
Kōyasan chōishi-michi is a pilgrimage trail through mountain forests with stone markers guiding walkers toward Mount Koya's temple complex. The route passes through varied terrain and connects several starting points at different elevations.
The route was established in the 9th century when a Buddhist monk founded a religious center at Mount Koya and marked the path with stone indicators. This trail has been preserved and maintained through centuries as a key pilgrimage route.
The stone markers along the route carry Buddhist meanings that deepen the spiritual journey of those who walk here. These markers transform the walk into a meditative experience by marking the path forward with purpose.
The walk is physically demanding and requires sturdy footwear for uneven forest ground and steep sections. Bring water and snacks, as few shops or facilities exist along the route.
The stones were placed at precise intervals to guide pilgrims through unmarked forest paths, creating a navigation system that required no other markings. This arrangement proved reliable across many centuries of use.
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