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WAKAYAMA
Sacred sites and pilgrimage routes in the Kii Mountain Range
Sacred sites and ancient pilgrimage routes immersed in a benevo-lent natural environment, along with a cultural landscape steeped in ancient Buddhist lore and history, this World Heritage site in the Kii Mountain Range preserves a uniquely spiritual aura.
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| The Kii Mountain Range abounds in sacred sites and pilgrimage routes |
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From the birth of ancient Japanese mythology on to this day, the Kii Moun-tain Range has been considered an earthbound paradise where gods dwell in bliss. This idyllic region is imbued with significance having become a favored environment for the meditative practice of ascetic Buddhism. In time, pilgrimage routes weaved through the Kii Mountain Range leading to three sites of different origins and characteristics, "Koyasan", "Kumano Sanzan", and "Yoshino and Omine". The unique spiritual essence of this area still attracts followers of ascetic Buddhism and pilgrims from every corner of Japan. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004 it is designated as "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range".
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| "Koyasan" (Mount Koya) Area |
"Koyasan" is the most famous of these three venerated sites, with 117 temples still remaining, it's been long considered a mountaintop holy "city" spanning over a millennia of history. This revered site set deep in the surrounding steep moun-tain ridges and dense forests resulted in a spiritual-related cultural landscape. Hiking the steep paths of Koyasan from one historical and holy spot to another is the major activity of numerous pilgrims.
Major sightseeing include 'Okunoin', one of the most hallowed grounds in all of Japan, where 200,000 souls including that of Kobo Daishi (Kukai), the founder of Shingon Buddhism rest in eternal peace.
 
The 'Garan', is a focal temple complex originally constructed by Kobo Daishi.
Be sure to have the 'Reihokan Museum' on your agenda, it displays a wide-ranging collection of religious objects and relics, many designated Japanese national treasures.
'Kongo-buji Temple', founded in 816 by the high Buddhist priest Kukai became the fountainhead from where sprang the 'Shingon' sect of  Buddhism until today 4,000 active temples presently exist throughout Japan.
Don't miss 'Daimon', the main gate to the sacred city with two fierce-looking statues guarding this ancient monument. Many more fascinating and awe inspiring sites are there to be discovered by pilgrims on a spiritual quest to the Kii Mountain Range.
Several well-organized tours are offered to thoroughly explore Koyasan depending on your particular interest.  Those wishing to venture forth on an authen-tic pilgrimage route, Koyasan's Choseki Stupa Route, Koya Sanzan Route and Women Pilgrims Route, (added to UNESCO's World Heritage List in 2004 as "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range") have been carefully maintained and for the brave hiker undoubtedly culminates in an unforgettable journey. In summer it's about 10°C (50°F) cooler on the summit than at the base of the mountain thus Koyasan has earned a reputation as a welcome cool retreat to be enjoyed by casual hikers or dedicated pilgrims.
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Audio Guide and Koyasan Interpreter Guide Club
ExperienceThe Koyasan Tourist Association offers a Rental Audio Guide (¥500 per day) at the 'Chuo' and 'Ichi-no-hashi' offices; it's a valuable tool for in-depth information about mystical Koyasan. At the Koyasan Interpreter Guide Club you will find English-language guided tours to the sacred and cultural treasures delivering a wealth of interesting lore about Koyasan not found in guidebooks.
Koyasan Interpreter Guide Club:www.geocities.jp/koyasan_i_g_c
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Access to Wakayama
Nankai Electric Railway:www.nankai.co.jp/koyasan/english/index.html
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| 'Shukubo' temple hospitality(Experience) |
'Koyasan' is great to experience an overnight stay in a Buddhist temple with over fifty monasteries providing lodging for travelers and pilgrims (Shukubo). You will find unique accommodations, meticulous gardens and wholesome vegetarian cooking (Shojin Ryori), including wild edible plants gathered locally and Koyasan's renowned sesame tofu are generously proffered by friendly monks. Spending a few precious hours or days embraced in a soothing ambiance of Buddhist chants and rites are sure to be deeply spiritual and an experience beyond your expectations. 'Shakyo' (Hand-Copying of Sutras) and morning prayers are offered at some temples. Log on to 'Koyasan' website for details.
Koyasan/Shukubo:www.shukubo.jp/eng/index.html
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| 'Kumano Kodo' Pilgrim route |
Located in the Kii Mountain Range, "Kumano Kodo" is the ancient pilgrim road linking Kumano Sanzan (three grand shrines: "Kumano Hongu Taisha", "Kumano Hayatama Taisha", and "Kumano Nachi Taisha") and a part of the World Heritage "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range." For well over a thousand years, the high and the mighty, emperors and wealthy landowners, brave samurais and humble commoners, have trudged along the 'Kumano Kodo'. You are invited to take the same path and become a part of living history amid a majestic natural setting.
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Get More Information
Tanabe City Kumano Tourism Bureau:
www.tb-kumano.jp/en/index.html
Wakayama Prefecture:
wiwi.co.jp/kanko/world/english/index.html
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