A statue of Fudō Myōō, the Wisdom King, is enshrined within the main hall. Flames blazing at his back, he wields a sword that cuts through worldly desires with his right hand. With his left he holds a rope to save humanity by binding up their remaining worldly attachments. It speaks of unshakable strength and profound mercy at the same time.

“Fudō” means “Immovable” – an iron will to withstand any hardship. He quietly asks us to be brave and look within.

Fudō Myōō is deified according to “Mikkyō” teachings. But what exactly is that?

Mikkyō, or “esoteric buddhism,” was first introduced to Japan by the Heian period monk Kūkai, who studied it in Tang-era China. After returning to Japan, he founded the temple at Mount Kōya, where he preached the attainment of Buddhahood during life. However, Mikkyō as a doctrine changed over time, losing its purity along the way.

Enter Kakuban, who revitalized it by opening a new academy at Mount Kōya where he strived to teach the old ways. His efforts were met with much opposition; eventually, he left Mount Kōya to avoid open conflict. His determination is the embodiment of Mikkyō good samaritanship

When you stand in front of the main temple, picture Fudō Myōō as you look at your own doubts. Which attachments must you cut free, and which should you cling to? Here, you do not aim your prayers outward, but rather inward, to your very heart.