Caro sent me a card that they picked up on their travels to Japan. It is a photo of a water temple in the Okunoin, or the cemetery of 20 000 Monks.
Okunoin is one of Japan’s most sacred places. Located in the holy temple town of Koyasan, it is home to the final resting place of many of the nation’s most important historical and religious figures.
Koyasan was founded in 816 CE by a monk named Kukai. He created the town as the headquarters of Shingon Buddhism – a sect he himself started – and resided there for much of his long life. His writings and teachings earned him respect from many, including the Japanese imperial court. By the time of his death, he was so highly revered that even though his body was entombed in Okunoin, many believe that he lives on in a meditative state and continues to pray for the souls of those on earth right here in the cemetery.
Crossing the Ichinohashi Bridge allows entrance into the forest that surrounds the cemetery. Okunoin is the largest graveyard in Japan – it stretches over two kilometres and includes the graves of over 20,000 monks and other believers in Shingon’s teachings. A number of famed feudal lords are buried here as well, including Oda Nobunaga and Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Yet, the site isn’t creepy – it is one of the most gorgeous and tranquil places in the country. The stately trees and ornate tombstones truly take the breath away, allowing for quiet meandering and thoughtful meditation as visitors make their way through the trees.
Caro is from Trier, which is located near the German-Luxembourg border. It was founded by the Celts in the 4th century BCE.
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