Crossing that bridge into Okunoin feels like stepping into another world - literally, since it symbolically represents passing into the afterlife. This isn't just another temple visit; it's a journey to where Kobo Daishi, founder of Shingon Buddhism, is believed to be in eternal meditation rather than having died.

The goma fire ceremony here hits different - maybe it's because you're watching it in a place where the line between our world and the next feels particularly thin. They're serious about no photos (and I mean serious - don't even try!), but honestly, that rule helps you really absorb the atmosphere rather than trying to capture it.

The Japanese saying goes that you should cross that bridge three times in your life - first for salvation, second for enlightenment, and third for death. Keep that in mind as you make your crossing.