Koyasan, located approximately 30km to the west-southwest of Yoshino and Omine, is the sacred site centered around Kongobu-ji Temple founded in 816 by the High Priest Kukai (774 - 835) as the principal site for mountain asceticism, the severe forms of self-discipline practiced by the Shingon sect of esoteric Buddhism, which Kukai brought to Japan from China. The temple's complex is designed in accordance with the doctrine of the Shingon sect, combining a main building called a 'Hondo' with esoteric pagoda structures called 'Tahoto'.
	Kongobu-ji Temple Garan Area This cradle of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism flourished as a religious city for 1200 years.

	Kongobu-ji Temple (Honzan area) The main temple presiding over the religious practices of the Shingon sect.		Koyasan Choishimichi (Route) An ancient pilgrim path that originated from Jison-in Temple and led to Okuno-in Area.

Okuno-in Area Revered as the most sacred place of all on Koyasan Mountain and where High Priest Kukai's mausoleum is located.

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