Mt Koya, Wakayama Prefecture; November 2010

In November, 2010, I was invited by my good friend Jon to join the Wakayama JET contingent on a weekend tour of Mt Koya (Koyasan), the home of Shingon Buddhism which was introduced to Japan by Kobo Daishi.

http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e4900.html

We stayed at Rengejo-in, a working monastery that also offers lodging for travellers (called Shukubo). There are over 50 Shukubo in Koyasan, but I'm pretty sure we stayed at the best. 

Quiet contemplation

Autumn Leave in the temple grounds

During our stay we were invited to join in the morning and evening meditations, and enjoyed traditional Buddhist vegetarian dinner and breakfast. Dinner was one of the best experiences I have had in Japan. The widow of the former temple head joined us in our meal to tell us her story of learning English in preWWII Japan, and the reactions of people in postWWII Japan. Please go for yourself to find out. To hear the 'other-side' of the story, was certainly a special experience for me.

Prior to this we toured the area and visited some of the main temples in the district, including Kongobuji Temple and Garan. The Autumn leaves were particularly beautiful up here, especially as we didn't have to fight the hoards of people that we would have encountered, had we been in Kyoto. 

The second day we explored Okunoin Temple and Cemetary grounds. In a bid to remain close to Kobo Daishi in death, many people, including feudal lords, had their tombstones placed here. Come here on a foggy day, and you will be surrounded by haunting beauty. Many of the tombs' age are unable to be determined. Mount Koya was designated as a UNESCO world heritage site in 2004. 

This trip was made all the more special for me, as I was able to travel with my friends Jon, Luc, Brodie and Amanda. It was also Jon's birthday, so we brought along a cake just for him. Happy Birthday Jon!

Extra Koya-san information

• Koya-san is on average 5 degrees colder than Kobe/Osaka areas. Make sure to bring layers. 

• It takes around 2 hrs to Koyasan Station from Osaka, changing to the Nankai line at Shinimamiya. It costs 1400yen. Via express train from Shinimamiya costs 2160. The bus must be taken from the station, as the road is private and closed to pedestrians.