Visit Wakayama

The temple most closely associated with the famous Sanada samurai warrior family. Masayuki Sanada, considered one of the greatest military strategists of the Warring States period and fated to spend confined here, is enshrined as Sanada Daigongen. There is also a monument to the poet Basho, who wrote about Sanada, and the Kaminari Fuji well in which Masayuki’s son Yukimura was said to trap thunder. Also enshrined here is an Enmei Koyasu bosatsu (for longevity and safe childbirth). In May, the municipal flower, peonies, bloom profusely to the delight of residents and visitors alike.

Until the late 1800’s, women were not allowed to worship at Koyasan. Jisonin, a temple on the way to Koyasan, welcomed female devotees. Today, it is known for the thousands of breast-shaped offerings hung around the temple and grounds, to pray for women’s health.

Dai-mon, the main gate to Koyasan, was rebuilt in 1705. It is a multistoried tower gate that stands 25.1 meters high. The statues of the guardian gods at both sides of the gate were made by Buddhist sculptors Koi and Uncho during the Edo period. The gate is also a place where beautiful sunsets can be viewed and is lit up at night, creating a mystical spectacle.

The Danjo Garan Sacred Temple Complex can be described as the center of Koyasan, which was opened by Kukai (aka Kobo Daishi) as a place for secret training in Shingon esoteric Buddhism. Several temples are located inside the Danjo Garan, and the 49-meter tall Great Stupa is of an especially splendid and impressive scale.