Private 2-Hour Koyasan Highlights Tour – UNESCO Heritage

Wakayama Prefecture , Japan

Private 2-Hour Koyasan Highlights Tour – UNESCO Heritage

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About this experience

Discover the Okuno-in Cemetery, the largest in Japan, with a local guide. Learn about the history of the cemetery and the famous monk Kobo Daishi.

Available options

Private 2-Hour Koyasan Highlights Tour – UNESCO Heritage

What's included

Visit to famous samurai graves

Opportunity to experience the sacred atmosphere

Guided tour of Koyasan Okuno-in

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Do you know Koyasan Okuno-in? There are numerous cemeteries and memorial towers lined up toward the place where Kobo Daishi, the famous monk who founded Koyasan 1,000 years ago, is said to have continued his meditation to this day.
These are an expression of the desire to sleep near the famous monk, and when you actually stand at the place, you will feel no sense of foreboding or dimness, only a quiet and sacred atmosphere.
Numerous graves, including those of famous Japanese samurai, provide an opportunity to see what kind of people are being laid to rest.
Imagine. Imagine the smell of moss and cedar trees, and a space of silence filled with fog. The only sounds are those of water and birds. Enjoy Japan's first sacred site with a local guide.

What's not included

Transportation to Koyasan

Meals and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

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

Transportation within the tour includes less than 100 steps.

Meeting point

In front of Ichino-hashi bridge. 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.