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Shogoin-Monzeki was founded in 1090 and is the head temple of the Honzan Shugendo sect. This temple preserves Shugendo, a syncretic religion that blends mountain religion and Buddhism. It is also a prestigious temple with strong ties to the Imperial family.

Originally a residence built in 1482 by Ashikaga Yoshimasa, the eighth shogun of the Muromachi shogunate, it became a temple after his death. The Silver Pavilion located within the temple grounds is designated as a National Treasure. The mound of sand built nearby is called the "Moon-Facing Platform."

This temple is associated with Honen Shonin, the founder of the Jodo sect of Buddhism. The temple fell into disrepair after Honen Shonin was exiled, but it was restored in 1680. The interior of the hall is open to the public every year from April 1st to 7th and from November 1st to 7th.

This shrine was founded in 1160 when Emperor Go-Shirakawa invited the deities from Kumano (Wakayama Prefecture) to be enshrined here. There is a record that Ashikaga Yoshimasa held a cherry blossom viewing party in 1465. It was devastated during the Onin War (1467-1477), but was rebuilt by Toyotomi Hideyoshi.

This temple is known as the temple where Princess Matsumushi and Princess Suzumushi, who served Emperor Go-Toba, became nuns. It is usually closed to the public, but is open during special events in spring and autumn. There is a beautiful garden on the temple grounds.

This is the head temple of the Shinshu Bukkoji sect. Every morning at 7:00 AM, services are held in the Amida Hall and the Daishi Hall. The sound of a bell rang out from outside, and we all chanted "Namu Amida Butsu." The chanting was very fast-paced and pleasant to listen to.

Okunoin cemetery is the most important place in Koyasan. There is a tour to visit Okunoin cemetery at night with an English guide. There were many graves along the approach to the mausoleum, and it was very quiet. The atmosphere was solemn, completely different from when I visited in the afternoon.

Toji Temple was built about 1,200 years ago and is the only temple remaining from the original founding of Kyoto. I attended the morning service at Toji Temple. I entered the national treasure hall and listened to the monks chanting sutras. It was a sutra that sounded like a song with a melody.

Honnoji Temple was founded in 1415. It is the head temple of the Hokke Honmon school of Buddhism. Morning services are held at Honnoji Temple every day from 6am, and anyone is welcome to attend. The sound of the drums was very powerful and electrifying.

There are many temples in Kyoto, and some of them hold zazen (Zen meditation) sessions that you can join without making a reseravation. Zazen is an experience that allows you to sit quietly, calm your mind, and experience Japanese spirituality.If you have a chance to visit Kyoto, be sure to give it a try.