It was still drizzling when we entered the main gate of Okunoin. Located in Mount Koya in Koyasan Japan, Okunoin Cemetery is the biggest graveyard in the country.

The ground was wet, the air carried a mossy smell while the rain made it foggy. The whole atmosphere of the place was filled tranquility, felt by all of us there who were hiding inside our rain jackets, walking and observing in silence.

Jizo at Okunoin Cemetery

Okunoin has hundreds of tombstones, and many of it looked rather unusual and interesting. There were also many statues of Jizo. Jizo is believed to be the protector of children and travelers in Japanese culture.

Torodo Hall

Walking a little further in, I reached the Torodo Hall, a praying hall with thousands of lamps; it was such a glorious sight.

Shinrin-yoku at Okunoin Cemetery

I believe Okunoin Cemetery is one of the best places in Japan to practice Shinrin-yoku or forest bathing. The fresh air, abundant trees, and huge ground would help anyone to easily unplug and connect with nature.

Resurrection and eye-lashes

It is believed that Buddha will come and raise everyone who is buried in Okunouin one day. And if you want to be taken to heaven too, you should at least leave a part of yourself here. My friend was intrigued by this belief and left her eyelash there. She surprises me at times.

After saying little prayers we made our way to the restaurant right opposite of the gate. The rain and the long trip from Tokyo earlier made us hungry. My friends ordered the restaurant’s specialty, the udon noodles,  while I opted for tempura and rice.

A pilgrimage to Okunouin is a great thing to add to your Japanese itinerary. And if you do, combine it with the Japanese temple lodging at Koyasan.

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