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It is the largest cemetery in Koyasan. Along the alleys, more than two hundred thousand tombs of daimyō, religious (including Nichiren and Shinran), samurai, great historical figures or simple people, have been built. It is best to enter at the Ichino-hashi bridge and follow the alley that goes into the forest. The alley is even more impressive in the morning or evening when it is lit by lanterns. The ambiance and atmosphere are truly unique. The abundant moss on the stones, the centuries-old cedars lining the road and the quiet atmosphere, especially during off-peak hours, all contribute to this. At the northern end of the cemetery is the Tōrō-dō (Lantern Pavilion), a prayer shrine, where thousands of lanterns burn. Currently, 10,000 lanterns are said to be there. They are donated by devotees. Two of them are supposed to be burning since the 11th century. Right after, there is the Mizumuke Jizo, rows of Jizo statues that stand at the foot of the Gobyo-no-hashi bridge. When crossing the bridge, you should behave in a respectful way and not take pictures, even if it can be frustrating, given the beauty of the place. At the end of the path, you reach the mausoleum of Kūkai, also known as Kōbō-Daishi. According to the Shingon tradition, Kūkai is one of the most important figures, as he is to assist the Buddha of the Future, when he comes, in the salvation of souls.
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