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Historic monument · Koya, Wakayama
Daimon Gate
The large west entrance gate of Koyasan, from 1705, about 25 meters high with two statues of guardian kings. It stands on the slope crest with views over the Kii Peninsula mountains.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
A look at the place
Daimon Gate in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
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About Daimon Gate
The Daimon, the “great gate,” marks Koyasan’s western entrance at the point where the old Choishi‑michi pilgrimage trail reached the valley from the plain. For centuries, pilgrims and travelers entered the mountain here. The current gate was rebuilt in 1705 after fires and is an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
It is about 25 meters high, has two stories and five bays, built of wood painted red with a copper roof. Flanking the central passage are two Kongorikishi statues, the muscular guardian kings with fierce expressions, who protect the entrance from evil spirits; they were carved in the early 18th century and are among the largest of their kind in Japan. The inscription tablets high above speak of Kukai’s enduring presence on the mountain.
The gate stands on the edge of the plateau, and outside it opens onto views of the Kii Peninsula mountain ranges, which form layers of blue toward the sea at late afternoon. Many visitors come to the Daimon for the sunset.
From there the main street descends toward Danjo Garan, about a 10‑minute walk. Walkers on the Choishi‑michi, the roughly 20 km trail that climbs from the town of Kudoyama, enter the mountain here and continue to Danjo Garan, where the sequence of 180 stone markers ends.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 15 to 30 minutes.
Best time
Late afternoon, when the sun sets over the Kii Peninsula mountains. In November the surrounding trees often change color.
How to get there
At the far west of Koyasan. The funicular station bus stops at Daimon; from Danjo Garan it’s about a 10‑minute walk.
Tip
Walk through the gate and look out toward the mountains. Combine this visit with Danjo Garan on the same walking route.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Daimon Gate
How tall is the Daimon gate?
About 25 meters, with two stories and two large guardian king statues in the passage.
Is there a fee to see the Daimon?
No admission is charged; the gate is open at the roadside.
What is the Choishi‑michi?
The old pilgrimage trail of about 20 km that climbs from the plain to the Daimon, marked by 180 stone posts. It takes 6 to 8 hours to walk.
Where to watch the sunset in Koyasan?
At the Daimon, on the western edge of the plateau, with views over the Kii Peninsula mountains.
Beyond the guide
