Ajikan Dojo 阿字観道場

Ajikan Dojo is located on the north side of the garden at Kongobuji Temple, Mount Koya, Wakayama Prefecture.

It was built in 1967 at the request and with a donation from Daisojo Nakai Ryuzui, the 401st abbot of Kongobuji Temple, for the purpose of Ajikan training.

In the centre is a room for lectures on Ajikan, with smaller rooms on either side of it.

Ajikan is a meditation method in Esoteric Shingon Buddhism, in which one meditates by visualizing the Sanskrit character "A" as Dainichi Nyorai within a moon disc,

and through this method one enters into oneself and achieves oneness with the Buddha.

In this respect it is different from the mindlessness and dreaming of Zen.


Ajikan Meditation at Koyasan’s Kongobu-ji Temple

Ajikan meditation is a traditional meditation practice in Shingon Buddhism, which is one of Japan’s major Buddhist schools.
The word "Ajikan" refers to meditating on the Sanskrit letter "A" (
).
This letter symbolizes the fundamental nature of the universe and represents the origin of all things.

During the meditation, participants focus on the visual image of the "A" character, chanting it silently while calming the mind and breathing deeply.
The goal is to connect with the essence of the universe and reach a state of inner peace.

At Kongobu-ji Temple, you can experience Ajikan meditation in a serene and sacred environment.
Even if you’re new to meditation, the monks will guide you through the process, making it a welcoming experience for beginners.
It’s a unique opportunity to learn a deeply spiritual practice in the heart of Koyasan, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.
Please check the temple's schedule for available sessions, as reservations may be required.


Take a breather with ajikan meditation

At Sohonzan Kongobuji, you can practice ajikan meditation.
Ajikan is a form of breathing exercise and meditation practiced in Shingon Buddhism. Meditate in tranquility amidst the pure aura of Mount Koya, still the mind, and leave your busy life.
Monks are on hand to guide beginners, so this is an excellent addition to your visit to Kongobuji.

Ajikan meditation is conducted in only Japanese.

Schedule

Four days a week (Fri, Sat, Sun, Mon)
Held from April 20, 2024 through November 18, 2024
Note that the schedule and time may be subject to change based on other events at Kongobuji.

 Time

Held four times daily (for one hour)
9:00
11:0013:3015:30
Capacity: 14 persons per session

Location

Sohonzan Kongobuji Ajikan Dojo
Register at the charms counter at the back of Kongobuji. Note that places are offered on a first come, first served basis. First pay the ¥1000 entrance fee (non members) at the main window.

Entrance fee

Entrance fee: ¥1,000

Reservations

You can apply for an Ajikan meditation from website below.more KOYASAN (Ajikan)

Send inquiries and registration requests to:

132 Koyasan, Koyacho, Itogun,
Wakayama Prefecture, 648-0294
Sohonzan Kongobuji Religious Studies Department
ATTN: Koyasan Ajikan Instructor
TEL:0736-56-2014FAX: 0736-56-4640
(Weekends: dial 0736-56-2015)


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