Sensibility and Spirituality
Inside Okunoin
Okunoin Cemetery
Okunoin, Koya-san. A place where Kobo Daishi founded Japanese Buddhism 1200 years ago. I visited the place just months after its 1200th year anniversary. It is believed that Kobo Daishi is still alive, having an eternal meditation inside Okunoin (lit. temple of the end). Okunoin is considered one of the most sacred place in Japan and is also the most spiritual place I've been in my entire life.
Tall 300-600 year old cedar trees, surrounded by (Gounn) 5 symbol stone sculptural graves covered with algae and creeping plants, there is one stone paved path guided by stone lanterns through 3 stone bridges before one arrives the final temple where Kobo Daishi resides.
I find the place extremely calm and peaceful, a good walk reflecting upon yourself and your life along the way. I find the walk itself a way of cleansing myself, leaving Okunoin with a lightened shoulder.
Sharing some of my travelling and working experiences.