Kūkai
Buddhist monk, founder of Shingon Buddhism
Born
July 27th, 774
1250 years ago
Category
Thinkers & Philosophers
Country
Japan
Links & References
A prominent Japanese Buddhist monk and scholar, this individual established Esoteric Buddhism, also known as Shingon Buddhism, in Japan during the early Heian period. Born in 774, he studied in China, absorbing Chinese esoteric practices and later returned to Japan to spread these teachings. He founded the famous temple complex Mount Kōya, which became a center for Shingon Buddhism and remains significant to this day. Renowned for integrating philosophy and ritual, this figure also contributed to the development of the kana script and made notable contributions to Japanese culture through written works and teachings.
Founded Shingon Buddhism
Established Mount Kōya as a religious center
Created the kana writing system
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