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Koyasan
Meet your English speaking guide at your hotel in Osaka. Transfer by private car
to Gokurakubashi Station. Here, transfer to the cable car and make your way to Koyasan
station. Your car will be waiting for you at Koyasan Station.
** Depending on the season, there is a special train running from Hashimoto station
which offers observatory decks for unique views
Upon arrival, visit the Kongobuji Temple, established as a place for learning the
techniques of the Shingonshu sect of Buddhism. The Kongobuji Head Temple, which
refers to the entire mountain of Koya san, was developed by the monk Kobo Daishi
upon his return from China in 816. The Konogbuji Temple was built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi
and rebuilt in 1861.
Next visit the Danjo Garan, where Kobo Daishi built his central temple complex.
Legend has it that Kobo Daishi threw his sankosho (Buddhist ceremonial tool) from
China after completing his studies. When looking for a place to start his new religion,
he came across his sankosho stuck in a pine tree on Koyasan. This pine tree is still
standing on the grounds.
Transfer to Soji-in, a Buddhist Monastery, where you will stay the night.
Enjoy Shojin ryori, the traditional vegan Buddhist cuisine, for dinner. Based on
the concepts of five flavors, five cooking methods, and five colors.
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