Koyasan: All the highlights of Koyasan with special guide

Wakayama Prefecture , Japan

Koyasan: All the highlights of Koyasan with special guide

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About this experience

Visit Koyasan, one of the most sacred places on a mountain in Japan. Koyasan is the center of Buddhism in Japan. Explore the famous sites within Koyasan on this guided tour.

Start your tour at Okuno-in (inner sanctuary), where a famous monk from 1,000 years ago is said to have continued his meditation even today. In this area, people who wish to sleep near the famous monk have set up tombs, creating a quiet sanctuary with moss-covered headstones and huge cedar trees.

Next, visit Kongobuji Temple, the central temple that administers the affairs of the sacred Koya Mountain. Enjoy the temple architecture where many monks once lived and the lavish interior where nobles were entertained when they visited Koyasan.

The last stop is the Danjo Garan area, the center of Koyasan's ascetic practices. Koyasan's symbolic pagoda and many other attractions, this is truly the heart of Koyasan. Here, traditional Japanese Buddhist philosophy still lives on.

Available options

From/to Koyasan

Kohyasan All: This option starts from Koyasan and visits all the highlights of Koyasan in 4 hours.

From/to Osaka Namba

From/to Osaka Namba: In front of the Nankai Namba Station, 2nd floor, south ticket gate. The guide will be holding the yellow sign.

What's included

Admission to Okuno-in, Kongobuji Temple, and Danjo Garan

Professional and experienced guide

Guided tour of Koyasan

Detailed itinerary

Visit Okuno-in, the sacred heart of Koyasan, where the famous monk Kukai is said to continue his eternal meditation. This serene area is home to thousands of tombs, including that of the revered monk, nestled among towering cedar trees. The tranquil atmosphere, enhanced by moss-covered stones, offers a deeply spiritual experience and an opportunity to reflect on Koyasan's spiritual heritage.

Stop 2

Koyasan, or Mount Koya, is one of Japan’s most sacred mountains, revered as the heart of Japanese Buddhism. As the headquarters of the Shingon Buddhist sect, Koyasan is a sacred pilgrimage destination for those seeking spiritual enlightenment. Surrounded by lush forests and steeped in history, Koyasan offers a rare chance to connect with centuries of Buddhist tradition, culture, and practice.

Explore Kongobuji Temple, the central temple of Koyasan and the governing body of the sacred mountain. This grand structure once hosted nobles and high-ranking monks and remains a spiritual hub for Koyasan. The temple’s striking architecture, including its elegant interior rooms, reflects the deep connection between Japan’s Buddhist tradition and its noble past. Visitors can admire the intricate designs and tranquil gardens while learning about the rich history of this revered site.

The Danjo Garan area is the heart of Koyasan's ascetic practices and the site of the symbolic pagoda, one of the most iconic structures of the mountain. This sacred precinct is home to various temples and halls dedicated to Buddhist teachings and practices. It is the place where monks engage in their spiritual training, and its serene atmosphere allows visitors to experience the living traditions of Shingon Buddhism firsthand. Discover the profound spiritual legacy that continues to thrive in this sacred space.

What's not included

Personal expenses

Meals and beverages

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

In front of the Namba Police Box. The guide will be holding the yellow sign.

About Wakayama Prefecture

Wakayama Prefecture, located in the Kansai region of Japan, is known for its stunning natural beauty, historic temples, and the famous Koyasan (Mount Koya) pilgrimage site. With its rugged mountains, scenic coastlines, and rich cultural heritage, Wakayama offers a unique blend of traditional and natural experiences.

Top Attractions

Koyasan (Mount Koya)

A sacred Buddhist monastery town and UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its temples, graveyards, and pilgrimage routes.

Historical/Religious Full day to overnight Moderate to Expensive

Nachi Falls

One of Japan's tallest waterfalls, located near the Kumano Nachi Taisha shrine.

Nature Half day Free to view, fees for shrine and museum

Shirahama Beach

A popular beach resort area with white sand beaches, hot springs, and a scenic coastline.

Beach Full day Budget to Moderate

Kimii-dera Temple

A historic temple with beautiful gardens and panoramic views of Wakayama City.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Budget

Wakayama Castle

A reconstructed castle with a museum and beautiful gardens, offering insights into Wakayama's samurai history.

Historical 1-2 hours Budget

Must-Try Local Dishes

Wakayama Beef

Tender and flavorful beef, often served as sukiyaki or grilled.

Dinner Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Katsuobushi

Fermented, smoked, and dried bonito fish, used to make dashi (stock) and eaten as a topping for various dishes.

Snack/Dish Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Meharizushi

A traditional sushi dish from the Kii Peninsula, made with vinegared rice and fresh seafood or vegetables.

Lunch/Dinner Can be vegetarian if made with vegetables.

Koyasan Shojin Ryori

Buddhist vegetarian cuisine served in Koyasan, made with seasonal vegetables and tofu.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Kumano Beach activities in Shirahama Adventure World amusement park Hot spring baths in Shirahama Temple lodgings in Koyasan Beach relaxation in Shirahama Temple visits in Koyasan Shrine visits in Kumano

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (October to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn offers beautiful foliage.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Wakayama is a very safe destination with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious when hiking or exploring remote areas, as weather conditions can change quickly.
• Carry a map or use a reliable navigation app, as some areas may have limited signage.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots.

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 80 km from Wakayama City

By train

Wakayama Station

By bus

Wakayama Station Bus Terminal, Osaka Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Trains are efficient and punctual, with frequent services. The IC card (Suica, Icoca) can be used for seamless travel.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Wakayama City Koyasan (Mount Koya) Shirahama Kumano

Day trips

Kumano Nachi Taisha and Nachi Falls

80 km from Wakayama City • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring a stunning waterfall and an ancient Shinto shrine.

Shirahama Beach and Adventure World

100 km from Wakayama City • Full day

A popular beach resort area with white sand beaches, hot springs, and an amusement park.

Koyasan (Mount Koya)

50 km from Wakayama City • Full day to overnight

A sacred Buddhist monastery town with temples, graveyards, and pilgrimage routes.

Festivals

Koyasan Fire Festival (Goman-no-Otaki) • March 12-15 Shirahama Summer Festival • July to August Wakayama Castle Festival • April 1-30

Pro tips

Stay overnight in a temple lodging (shukubo) in Koyasan for a unique cultural experience.
Visit Nachi Falls early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Try the local seafood in Shirahama, especially the fresh sushi and grilled fish.
Use an IC card (Suica, Icoca) for seamless travel on trains and buses in Wakayama and the Kansai region.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and show respect for their culture.