Japan: Kongobuji Temple, Capturing the Heart of Shingon Buddhism
Updated: Dec 1
Kongobuji Temple, nestled in the serene mountains of Koyasan, is the head temple of Shingon Buddhism, one of the major schools of Buddhism in Japan. This temple is not just a place of worship but a cultural and historical treasure trove that has played a significant role in Japan's religious and political landscape.
The temple's serene atmosphere, beautiful gardens, and ornate architecture provide a peaceful and contemplative environment for visitors. Whether you are a spiritual seeker, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, Kongobuji Temple promises a memorable and enriching visit.
Kongobuji Temple is considered a cultural and historical treasure that has played a significant role in shaping Japan's religious landscape. Its rich history, architectural beauty, and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the depths of Japanese culture and spirituality.
The temple's role in preserving and promoting Japanese culture and spirituality has earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list as part of the "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range".
Koyasan Konpon Daito Pagoda | Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Available for purchase here)
I remember visiting Koyasan for the first time, long before my first pilgrimage to the 88 temples of Shikoku. Although I had not yet acquired the basic knowledge to appreciate Shingon Buddhist culture, my memories remain unforgettable. And my subsequent visits over the years have only confirmed this interest.
There is something unique that permeates these spiritual places, creating an atmosphere that is both serene and profound. Nestled in a landscape of verdant hills, Koyasan stretches its history from temples to cemetery, marking our journey with majestic pagodas and centuries-old trees.
Undeniably, the sacred town of Koyasan is an important source of inspiration for photographers interested in Japanese Buddhist art and heritage. If you want to learn more about it, I highly recommend reading this reference book:
However, I will not revisit the history, spirituality, and structure of Koyasan in this article. I’ve had the opportunity to discuss these important aspects in this dedicated article here. There, you’ll also find my recommendations for the 5 sites of photographic interest in Koyasan. Of course, this is a personal list, and everyone can form their own impressions during their visit. But for now, let’s focus on the beautiful Kongobuji Temple.
History of the Temple
The history of Kongobuji is deeply intertwined with the life of Kukai, also known posthumously as Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism. Kukai established the temple in the early 9th century as a center for his esoteric teachings. The temple's original name was Kongosanmaiin, but it was later renamed Kongobuji, which translates to "Temple of the Diamond Mountain".
What is Shingon Buddhism?
Shingon Buddhism is a major school of Japanese Buddhism founded by the monk Kukai (mentioned above) in the early 9th century. It is an esoteric form of Buddhism, emphasizing secret teachings and rituals aimed at achieving enlightenment within this lifetime.
Key characteristics include the use of mandalas (symbolic diagrams of the Buddhist cosmos), mantras (sacred chants), and mudras (ritual hand gestures) in spiritual practices. Shingon Buddhism integrates elements of Hinduism and other religious traditions, reflecting Kukai's synthesis of various spiritual teachings.
The sect's headquarters is located at Mount Koya (Koyasan), where Kukai established a monastic complex that remains a significant pilgrimage site. Shingon Buddhism has had a profound influence on Japanese culture, art, and literature, and continues to be a vibrant spiritual tradition in Japan.
To learn more about Shingon Buddhism, its culture, philosophy, statuary, and temples, you can read my numerous articles dedicated to it here.
Throughout its history, Kongobuji has undergone several periods of growth, decline, and reconstruction. During the Heian period (794-1185), the temple enjoyed imperial patronage and became a prominent center of learning and spiritual practice. However, like many ancient structures in Japan, Kongobuji has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times due to fires and wars.
The current temple complex dates back to the Edo period (1603-1868), with significant reconstruction and expansion occurring during the rule of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate.
© O. Robert
Important Figures
Several important figures have been associated with the evolution of Kongobuji Temple over time, each contributing to its rich history and cultural significance.
Kukai (Kobo Daishi) (774-835):
Obviously, as the founder of Shingon Buddhism and Kongobuji Temple, Kukai is the most revered figure in the temple's history. His teachings and writings form the basis of Shingon doctrine and continue to influence Japanese culture and spirituality. To learn more about Kukai's teaching and the characteristics of Shingon doctrine, you can read my article dedicated to the Path of Enlightenment According to Kukai.
Seimon Gate (Kongobuji) © O. Robert
Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1537-1598):
The prominent daimyo and political unifier of Japan, Hideyoshi was a devout follower of Kobo Daishi and provided significant support to Kongobuji. He commissioned the construction of several buildings within the temple complex, including the famous Banryutei rock garden (see below).
Tokugawa Ieyasu (1543-1616):
The founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate, Ieyasu continued Hideyoshi's support for Kongobuji, ensuring its preservation and expansion during the Edo period. Ieyasu, recognizing the temple's importance, provided financial support and protection, ensuring its preservation and growth. His patronage helped solidify the temple's role as a center of Shingon Buddhism.
Characteristics and Architectural Details
Kongobuji Temple is renowned for its architectural beauty and cultural significance. The temple complex is sprawling, with numerous buildings, gardens, and artifacts that showcase the rich history and artistic heritage of Shingon Buddhism.
Seimon Gate
Main entrance of Kongobuji Temple which was rebuilt in 1862.The gate consists of 2 entrances, a main one and a secondary (side) one. It forms an imposing architectural structure topped with a voluminous thatched roof. The main entrance was originally reserved for the imperial family and the chief monks. All other monks had to use the side gate to enter the sacred enclosure. Today, this tradition is no longer observed due to the tourist development of Koyasan. Therefore, all monks now enter through the main gate.
Banryutei Rock Garden
One of the most famous features of Kongobuji is the Banryutei rock garden, the largest rock garden in Japan. Designed by the renowned garden designer Kobori Enshu, the garden features 140 granite stones arranged to resemble a pair of dragons emerging from a sea of clouds. The garden is a masterpiece of Japanese landscape design and a popular spot for meditation and contemplation.
Ohiroma Hall
The Ohiroma is the main hall of Kongobuji, used for important ceremonies and rituals. This grand hall is adorned with intricate carvings, painted sliding doors called "Fusuma" (photo below), and ornate decorations that showcase the artistic prowess of the Edo period. The Ohiroma is also home to several important cultural artifacts, including scrolls, statues, and religious texts.
Fusuma Paintings
Kongobuji is famous for its fusuma paintings, which adorn the sliding doors of the temple's rooms. These paintings, created by the renowned Kano school of artists, depict various scenes from Japanese history, mythology, and nature. The fusuma paintings are not only beautiful works of art but also provide valuable insights into the cultural and artistic heritage of Japan.
© O. Robert
Shinbetsuden Room
The Shinbetsuden Room is considered as an annex room for welcoming guests. The room has been a witness to numerous important events and ceremonies throughout Kongobuji's history. It has served as a gathering place for monks, scholars, and dignitaries, making it a crucial part of the temple's legacy.
The Shinbetsuden has also been a venue for significant religious rituals and cultural events, further enhancing its importance. Visitors can immerse themselves in the serene environment, surrounded by the beautiful fusuma paintings and the rich history of the room, providing an enriching experience.
Sho-in Room
The Sho-in room serves as an audience hall or reception room where important guests and dignitaries were received and welcomed. This room is designed to accommodate formal meetings, ceremonies, and gatherings, reflecting its role as a significant space for official receptions and interactions within the temple complex. The Sho-in room's elegant Japanese architecture, featuring tatami mat flooring and sliding shoji screens, creates a serene atmosphere suitable for such purposes.
Ajikan Dojo
The Ajikan Dojo is a meditation hall specifically designed for the practice of Ajikan meditation. This is a form of meditation unique to Shingon Buddhism, involving the visualization of the Sanskrit syllable "A," which represents the essence of the universe and the ultimate reality. This meditation technique is aimed at achieving spiritual enlightenment. The Ajikan Dojo provides a focused environment for monks and practitioners to engage in this meditative practice.
Nakaniwa Courtyard
The Nakaniwa Courtyard is a beautifully landscaped space within the temple complex. The term "Nakaniwa" translates to "inner garden". This courtyard serves as a tranquil oasis where visitors can appreciate the natural beauty and meticulous design of traditional Japanese gardens. The Nakaniwa Courtyard features manicured plants, moss-covered stones, and pathways that invite contemplation. The garden is designed to harmonize with the surrounding architecture, providing a peaceful contrast to the grand halls. This courtyard is not just a decorative space but also a place for spiritual contemplation of nature.
Kongobuji and Photography
Kongobuji Temple stands as a testament to the rich spiritual legacy of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. Its grand halls and serene gardens offer a glimpse into the profound teachings and cultural heritage of this esoteric tradition.
For photographers, Kongobuji presents a unique opportunity to capture the essence of this sacred complex through the lens of black and white photography. The stark contrasts and subtle gradations of monochrome can beautifully highlight the intricate details of the temple's architecture, the serene atmosphere of its gardens, and the timeless spirituality that permeates the entire complex.
Whether you are a spiritual seeker, a history enthusiast, or a photographer looking to capture the soul of Japanese Buddhist art, Kongobuji Temple offers an enriching and transformative experience. Black and white photography, here again, allows the viewer to focus on the textures, forms, and emotional resonance of Kongobuji, stripping away distractions and revealing the pure essence of this spiritual sanctuary.
