Japanese esoteric practices, known as Mikkyo, encompass a variety of spiritual and religious traditions that emphasize secret teachings and rituals. Rooted in Buddhism, particularly Tendai and Shingon sects, these practices aim to achieve enlightenment through meditation, mantra recitation, and visualization techniques. Central to Mikkyo is the use of symbols and rituals, such as the mandala and mudras, which are believed to connect practitioners with divine energies. These practices often involve initiations and teachings that are passed down through a lineage, highlighting the importance of a teacher-student relationship in the pursuit of spiritual awakening.