Kongobuji : Headquarters of Koyasan Shingon Buddhism
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Greetings from the 412th Chief Abbot of Kongobuji
Koyasan is also thronged with people today. Since being registered on UNESCO's World Heritage list, the number of foreign tourists who visit Koyasan has been increasing.
There are a lot of temple buildings and pagodas there as well as many mossed stone monuments bristle along the approach toward Okunoin and produce naturally some wonderful good to heal people's soul in its tranquility.
Koyasan which has been familiar to Japanese people on behalf of the name "ODAISHI-SAMA" that means, "our great master" is a place founded by Kobo Daishi, Kukai about 1,200years ago. ODAISHI-SAMA traveled all over Japan giving people his hand to help them while he devoted himself into Buddhist practice and kept peace in his mind here in Koyasan with rich and deep nature.
Once you step into Koyasan, you never see your bustling world beneath. It is the basin spread 6 km from east to west and 2km from north to south, and entirely surrounded by even higher mountains. So people can leave themselves to the great nature fogetting their daily routine.
It is no wonder a miraculous world staying away from all the annoyance and suffering in the daily life. Both winners and losers who became famous in the history or many nameless commoners sleep peacefully along the approach toward Okunoin.
Koyasan itself has a peaceful atmosphere but it is also one of the teachings of "ODAISHI-SAMA." He taught all animated beings were linked together and he has been reaching out to all animated beings equally.
On the earth, rivalries between peoples, conflicts over religions and family discord can be seen frequently. Koyasan show you the way to understand and accept opponents without insisting unilaterally.
Koyasan has just set about the project celebrating the 1200th anniversary of Koyasan's foundation. I hope Koyasan can play an important role to make harmonious societies to achieve a lasting peace.
Archbishop Matsunaga Yukei
The 412th Chief Abbot of Kongobuji
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