The life and achievements of Kobo Daishi (Kukai) 

Accurate reproductions

Modern specialists created our reproductions by faithfully imitating national treasures and important cultural properties. The Kagawa Museum, located in the birthplace of Kukai, is the only museum permitted to display these reproduction national treasures.

Kukai Exhibition Room, a unique place to learn his life

The Kagawa Museum is the only facility in Japan where visitors can learn about the entire life of Kukai. There is nothing like this in Kyoto or at temples in Mt. Koya. This room is a unique place to learn about his thinking and his influence on culture using all five senses.

About Kobo Daishi (Kukai)

Kobo Daishi (Kukai) (774-835) was a Buddhist monk born in present-day Zentsuji, Kagawa. He is known as the founder of the Shingon School of Buddhism. He travelled to China in 804, during the Tang dynasty, and acquired the great knowledge of Esoteric Buddhism in Changan. He returned to Japan and officially introduced Shingon Esoteric Buddhism to the country. He then founded Kongobu-ji Temple at Mt. Koya as the center of training and the propagation of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism.
Kukai was an influential monk, calligrapher (one of the three famous Heian period calligraphers) and poet. He also had talent for construction and water management. The story of the Manno Reservoir restoration project that he carried out for the ordinary people of the region, one of his most important achievements, has been passed down to today.
People have deeply admired his thought and achievements beyond religion and culture. Kukai, who is also called Odaishisama, is still worshipped by people in Japan over 1,000 years after his death.

Selected Exhibits

*With the exception of works from the Museum’s own collection, all items on display are reproductions.