Take a silent walk into the largest and most sacred graveyard in Japan buried up there in Mt. Koya
Built up on Koyasan's wooded mountaintop, Okunoin is Japan’s largest cemetery of more than 200,000 tombstones in a tranquil setting, many of which belong to feudal lords and prominent monks. It is also the site of the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism and one of Japan's most significant religious figures. Taking a silent walk into Okunoin as well as around Mount Koya’s temples is not only a must to pilgrims, but also a great way for tourists to gain deep insights into Japanese Buddhism. Another important site you should visit is Kongobuji, the head temple of Shingon Buddhism and home of Japan’s largest rock garden. After the walking tour, you will have a great chance to experience an overnight stay at the shukubo (temple lodging), where you could witness a monk's lifestyle, dine on famed Buddhist cuisine, and attend the morning prayers.
