Daimon Gate: Gateway to Sacred Koyasan
Majestic gateway to Koyasan's sacred heart, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Japanese Buddhist tradition.
Daimon Gate, or 'Great Gate,' marks the traditional entrance to Koyasan, a significant center of Shingon Buddhism and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located on the western edge of Koyasan, the gate stands 25.1 meters (82 feet) tall and serves as a symbolic threshold between the secular world and the sacred precinct of Koyasan. The original gate was a Shinto torii, but it was replaced in 1141 with a Buddhist-style gate. The current structure was rebuilt in 1705 after a fire. The gate faces west, towards the Pure Land Buddhist paradise and China, where Kobo Daishi, the founder of Koyasan, studied. Two imposing wooden statues of Kongo Rikishi (guardian deities) flank the gate. Sculpted by Koi and Uncho, renowned Buddhist sculptors of the Edo period, these figures are second in size only to those at Nara's Todaiji Temple. The open-mouthed Agyō and closed-mouth Ungyō statues symbolize the beginning and end of all things. Inscriptions on wooden plaques express the belief that Kobo Daishi watches over Koyasan, offering peace and salvation. The gate offers panoramic views, especially during sunset.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and the best light for photography.
- Take a moment to reflect on the gate's spiritual significance and enjoy the panoramic views.
- Check the weather forecast, as fog can create a particularly mystical atmosphere around the gate.
A brief summary to Daimon Gate
- Koyasan, Koya, Koyasan, 高野町, Ito District, Wakayama, 648-0211, JP
- +81736-56-2011
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Koyasan Station (reached via the Nankai Koya Line and cable car from Osaka), take the Nankai Koyasan Bus. Several bus routes serve the town, with frequent connections between the station and Daimon Gate. The bus ride takes approximately 15 minutes. A single bus fare costs around ¥400. Consider purchasing a 1-day bus pass for ¥1100 if you plan to use the bus frequently.
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Walking
From the center of Koyasan town, Daimon Gate is a pleasant 30-minute walk. Follow the main road west, enjoying the scenery. The route is well-marked. Be aware that the road has some slopes.
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Driving
From the Koya IC exit on the Hanwa Expressway, follow Route 371 towards Koyasan. Once in the Koyasan area, follow signs to Daimon Gate. Parking is available near the gate, but fees may apply. Some parking lots charge ¥400 for the first hour, with additional charges of ¥150 per 30 minutes thereafter. Free parking can be found further from the gate.
Attractions Nearby to Daimon Gate
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Kongobu-ji Danjo Garan (Elevated Precinct)
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Kongobu-ji Chumon (Central Gate)
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Koyasan Saizen-in Temple
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Kongobu-ji Kompon Daito (Grand Central Pagoda)
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Koyasan Reihokan Museum
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Souji-in Temple
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Koyasan Daishikyokai
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Tokugawa Clan Mausoleum
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Kongobu-ji
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Fukuchi-in Temple (Pilgrim's Lodging)
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Ichijo-in Temple (Pilgrim's Lodging)
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Kumano Kodo Kohechi Pilgrimage Route
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Eko-in Temple (Pilgrim's Lodging)
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Kumagai-ji Temple (Pilgrim's Lodging)
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Okunoin Cemetery
Landmarks nearby to Daimon Gate
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Nyonin-do Hall
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Shukyohojinyakushiji
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Mitaraikyoutsuri Bridge
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Menfudo Shonyudo
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Yata Pass (Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail Kiritoshi Road)
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Goyomatsu Limestone Cave Monorail
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Izumiinoue Shrine
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Izumi Tourist Center Omotenashi-Dokoro
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Yoshino Kumano National Park
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Ikegami-Sone Archaeological Park
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Takamatsuzuka Tumulus
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Kotonoura Onzan-Soh-En Garden
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Romon
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Kameishi
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Ishibutai Tumulus