Kongo Sammai-in
temple
金剛三昧院
Sacred Koyasan temple preserving stunning Kamakura-period gardens and housing important Shingon Buddhist artworks.
One of the more historically significant temples within the Koyasan complex, housing a three-storied pagoda dating to the 13th century and designated as a National Treasure. The pagoda stands inside a walled garden garden of raked gravel and stone, and the contrast between the wooden structure and the surrounding cryptomeria forest gives the compound a composed, ceremonial stillness. The temple was founded by Hojo Masako, the widow of Minamoto no Yoritomo, and the collection of carved wooden statues inside includes several Important Cultural Properties. It sits slightly off the main Koyasan visitor circuit, which means the grounds are generally quieter than the large complexes near the monastic center.
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