Kongobu-ji Temple

**Interior highlights:** The fusuma paintings are masterpieces — the Cherry Blossom Room (桜の間) features gold-leafed cherry trees in full bloom; the Pine Room (松の間) depicts wind-bent pines symbolizing resilience. The Willow Room's ceiling (where Hidetsugu died) shows a dark stain pattern — monks interpreted it as a manifestation of lingering karma, preserving it as a reminder of impermanence and the consequences of worldly power. Photography is prohibited in rooms with important paintings (preservation concerns), but the rock garden and main halls allow photography. **Banryutei rock garden:** Best viewed mid-morning (9:00-11:00) when raking patterns are freshly maintained and lighting is soft. The garden's name translates to 'coiled dragon garden' — the rock arrangements represent a male dragon (left) and female dragon (right) emerging from a sea of clouds (white gravel). Sit on the veranda for 10-15 minutes to absorb the meditative atmosphere — the garden is designed to quiet the mind and reflect Shingon teachings on emptiness and form. The gravel is raked daily by temple monks as a form of moving meditation. **Green tea service:** Entry fee includes a cup of matcha green tea and a seasonal wagashi sweet served in the temple's reception room. This hospitality reflects Koyasan's tradition of welcoming pilgrims. The tea is ceremonial-grade, whisked tableside by temple staff. The sweet (usually kuri yokan in autumn, sakura mochi in spring) complements the tea's bitterness. Take time to savor the tea slowly — this pause extends the temple visit's contemplative nature. The reception room overlooks an interior garden, adding to the serene setting.