Danjo Monastery

The Danjo Garan temple complex is located in Kōya in Northern Wakayama. It is said to be the first spot established on Mount Kōya when the founder of Shingon Buddhism, Kōbō-Daishi, settled here.  Along with the Okuno-in, this temple complex has been considered as one of the two holiest spots on Mount Kōya.  A Garan is a place where Buddhist priests gather to train;the original word is from Sanskrit.  Highlights of the complex include the Kondo hall and Konpon Daito pagoda. The Konpon Daito is the first two-storied pagoda built in Japan , which is the 48.5 meters high symbol of Danjo Garan. It has a very different look at night when it is illuminated. The headquarters of Mount Kōya, Kondo hall, is located in the center of the complex.  Other spots of interest are the Miedo hall, where Kōbō-Daishi’s ten disciples’ portraits are displayed, and the Sanko no Matsu, the legendary pine tree that based Mount Kōya for Shingon Buddhism.  Many events and ceremonies are held at Danjo Garan including the Setsubun-kai on the lunar new year where prayers are made for good health for the coming year.