World Heritage Site Koyasan
Rev. Yanagihara during religious training in the Danjo Garan.
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Koyasan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a sacred destination attracting visitors from around the world. It offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the spiritual and cultural heart of Shingon Buddhism. Highlights include the Danjo Garan, a stunning temple complex, and Okunoin, Japan’s largest cemetery and the resting place of Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism. The tranquil surroundings and deep spiritual atmosphere make Okunoin a must-visit, especially for those seeking a connection with Japan's rich religious heritage.
Koyasan has been the training site for generations of Shingon priests, including Rev. Yanagihara. All of Koboji's priests trace their Dharma lineage to Koyasan. |
Shukubo Pilgrim's Lodging
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For an authentic experience, consider staying at a shukubo (temple lodging).
Koboji's mother temple, Sanboin, warmly welcomes pilgrims and travelers. Guests can savor shojin ryori (traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine) and enjoy homecooked meals prepared with care. In 2023, Sanboin renovated their furo (bath facilities), ensuring a comfortable and rejuvenating stay. Most shukubo on Koyasan hold morning prayers that are open to guests. Depending on availability, you may be able to request shakyo, or sutra tracing in the temple. For additional information in English: |
Koyasan Sanboin Temple 高野山宿坊三宝院
580 Koyasan, Koya, Ito District, Wakayama 648-0211, Japan +81736562004 Please contact Sanboin directly to reserve your rooms. |
Sanboin: Koboji's Mother Temple
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Koyasan Sanboin shares a profound and enduring relationship with Koboji Shingon Mission that dates back to Koboji’s founding. This connection began with Bishop Kakuo Okimura, Koboji’s first chief priest and a disciple of Abbot SEKI Eikaku, the first Bishop of Hawaii.
During his tenure in Hawaii, Abbot Seki played a pivotal role in establishing the administrative structure and improving the reputation of Shingon missions across the islands. Upon returning to Japan, he assumed the role as Chief Priest of Sanboin, where he became the Dharma master for Archbishop Eisho Okimura. Abbot Seki also conducted tonsure and was the preceptor for Rev. Kosho Okimura's formal training. |
SEKI Eikaku (seated) with OKIMURA Eisho. 1948. Sanboin garden.
SEKI Eikaku Zengan
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Rev. Kosho Okimura (top row second from right) with KUSANAGI Zenko and SEKI Eikaku (seated)
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Following Abbot Seki, the leadership of Sanboin was passed to KUSANAGI Zenko, who served as the Dharma master for Archbishop Dean Zenei Okimura, Koboji’s third chief priest.
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Today, Sanboin continues this lineage with its current chief priest, Abbot HIDAKA Zenryu, who is the Dharma master for Rev. Bryan Zenju Yanagihara, Koboji’s fourth and current chief priest. This rich spiritual lineage underscores the strong ties between Sanboin and Koboji.
In many ways, the foundation and continued presence of Shingon missions in Hawaii owe their existence to the relationship fostered by Bishop Kakuo Okimura and Abbot SEKI. Sanboin remains a cornerstone of this shared history, welcoming pilgrims and fostering the teachings of Shingon Buddhism. |
Abbot HIDAKA Zenryu Zengan at Koboji
Abbot HIDAKA Zenryu Zengan officiating at Koboji
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Abbot SEKI Eikaku (center seate) with Archbishop Eisho Okimura and KUSANAGI Zenko. At Sanboin.
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KUSANAGI Zenko with a young Bishop Dean and Rev. Kosho Okimura. At Sanboin's gate.
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Abbot HIDAKA Zenryu with Zennoh. At Sanboin's gate.
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高野山三宝院とホノルル弘法寺は深いご縁で結ばれています。弘法寺の歴代住職は全員三宝院の弟子であり、その関係は初代住職である沖村覚應僧正と、初代ハワイ総監であった関栄覚僧正とのご縁に始まります。関僧正はハワイ真言宗の基盤を築き、帰国後は三宝院住職として後の沖村栄昇僧正や沖村弘照法師、沖村全栄僧正、そして現在の柳原全樹住職へと法を伝えてこられました。このご縁がなければ、今日のハワイ真言宗は存在し得なかったと言えます。次回高野山を訪れる際には、ぜひ三宝院をお参りいただき、祈りの時間をお過ごしください。
