Kūkai , born Saeki no Mao posthumously called Kōbō Daishi , was a Japanese Buddhist monk, calligrapher, and poet who founded the esoteric Shingon school of Buddhism. He travelled to China, where he studied Tangmi under the monk Huiguo. Upon returning to Japan, he founded Shingon—the Japanese branch of Vajrayana Buddhism. With the blessing of several Emperors, Kūkai was able to preach Shingon teachings and found Shingon temples. Like other influential monks, Kūkai oversaw public works and constructions. Mount Kōya was chosen by him as a holy site, and he spent his later years there until his death in 835 CE.
Kūkai, Japanese Buddhist monk, founder of Esoteric (Shingon) Buddhism (born 774)
Kūkai, Japanese Buddhist monk, founder of Esoteric (Shingon) Buddhism (born 774)
On April 22, in the year 835, Kūkai, Japanese Buddhist monk, founder of Esoteric (Shingon) Buddhism (born 774). This event is recorded as a Notable Deaths event in the history of April 22, one of 297 recorded events on this date across all of history.
1 notable person is associated with this event, including Kūkai. Learn more below.
Key Facts
- This event took place on April 22, 835 (AD era).
- It is categorised as a Notable Deaths event in recorded history.
- Referenced in 2 Wikipedia articles.
- 1 notable person is recorded as involved in or associated with this event.
- Wikipedia source last updated on 14 April 2026.
On This Date in History 297
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