**Danjo Garan**

Danjo Garan is the spiritual heart of Koyasan. It was founded by Kobo Daishi (Kukai) more than 1,200 years ago when he established this sacred Buddhist center.

The complex includes several beautiful buildings, but the most famous is the **Konpon Daito**, the Great Pagoda. It symbolizes the center of the Buddhist universe and is one of the most important structures in Shingon Buddhism.

Many of the buildings you see today have been rebuilt after fires over the centuries, but they faithfully preserve the original design and spiritual atmosphere. Today, Danjo Garan remains an active place of worship where monks continue to practice Buddhism.

**Kongobuji Temple & Banryutei Rock Garden**

Welcome to **Kongobuji Temple**, the head temple of Shingon Buddhism. It was originally built in the 16th century and became the head temple in 1869. Today, it serves as the administrative and spiritual center of the Shingon Buddhist sect founded by **Kobo Daishi (Kukai)**.

Inside the temple, you can see beautiful sliding-door paintings, elegant traditional rooms, and Japan's largest **Banryutei Rock Garden**.

**Banryutei** was completed in 1984. The white gravel represents clouds, while the rocks symbolize two dragons rising into the sky. In Japanese culture, dragons are considered protectors and symbols of wisdom and strength.

This temple is still an active place of worship, where monks study, pray, and preserve the traditions of Shingon Buddhism that have continued for more than 1,200 years.

Welcome to Okunoin, the most sacred place on Mount Koya. This cemetery has more than 200,000 graves and memorial monuments. Many famous people, companies, and historical figures are buried or remembered here.

At the end of the path is the Mausoleum of Kobo Daishi, also known as Kukai, the founder of Shingon Buddhism. According to tradition, Kobo Daishi did not die in the year 835. He is believed to be in eternal meditation, praying for the happiness and peace of all people.

Every day, monks bring him breakfast and lunch because they believe he is still alive in a spiritual sense. This tradition has continued for over 1,100 years.

As we walk through the cedar forest, please enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. This is not only a cemetery but also a place of prayer and hope. We ask visitors to be respectful, speak quietly, and photography is not allowed near the mausoleum.