Okunoin Temple

Okunoin Temple located at Mount Koya, surrounded by nature, is the largest cemetery site in Japan. The Ichinohashi Bridge is the entrance to Okunoin, which many believe while crossing the bridge is just like entering into another realm. Along the lining of 1.9 kilometers there are more than 200,000 tombstones including those belonging to famous feudal lords like Oda Nobunaga, Takeda Shingen, and Date Masamune. Torodo Hall is Okunoin’s main hall, with over 10,000 lanterns inside donated by worshipers are kept lit, with many ancient artifacts within the building related to Buddhism. Behind the Torodo Hall is Kobo Daishi’s, founder of Shingon and also known as Kukai, Mausoleum (Gobyo), the site of his eternal meditation. When visiting this location do not forget to show respect in the Japanese traditional manner and bow, before entering the peaceful area of Okunoin Temple.