Mt Koya Full Day Tour from Osaka with Licensed Guide and Vehicle

Osaka , Japan

Mt Koya Full Day Tour from Osaka with Licensed Guide and Vehicle

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

This is the ideal tour for travelers wanting to discover World Heritage Site, Mt. Koya. Go on a full-day guided private car tour of Mt. Koya and learn about the modern and traditional aspects of one of the world’s most sacred mountains!

If you are staying in Osaka but would like to take some time out to enjoy some sights outside the big city, then this tour of Mount Koya in Wakayama Prefecture is for you! Meet your guide at your hotel in Osaka, then head to Mount Koya.

Note*1: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

Available options

Regular Car (Up to 2 PAX)

Regular Car (Up to 2 PAX)<br/>Pickup included

Mini van (UP to 4 PAX)

Mini van (UP to 4 PAX)<br/>Pickup included

Van (Up to 7 PAX)

Van (Up to 7 PAX)<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private vehicle

Customizable Tour of your choice of 3-4 sites from 'What to expect' list'

Licensed Local English Speaking Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The heart of Mt. Koya. Kobo Daishi (Kukai), the founder of Shingon Buddhism and one of the most revered persons in the religious history of Japan, rests here. Also, many prominent personalities' graves line by the approach to Okunoin for several hundred meters through the forest. Your guide will explain interesting stories about those historical characters.

The main headquarters for the Shingon Sect, which has 4,000 temples throughout Japan and more than 10 million followers worldwide. Visitors can see religious artifact, fusuma sliding door paintings, as well as a beautiful rock garden representing two dragons flying amongst the clouds.

Stop 3

One of the two most sacred sites in Mt. Koya. In the 9th century, Mt. Koya was founded on this very ground. At that time, Kobo Daishi held a groundbreaking ceremony and then dedicated his life to the construction of Danjo Garan. This sacred area consists of nearly twenty different structures including the magnificent Konpon Daito. Your guide will tell you the meaning of these structures.

The Reihokan Museum (霊宝館, Reihōkan) was built to house and preserve the religious and cultural treasures of Koyasan. The museum's entrance hall is styled after Byodoin Temple in Uji, and it has three exhibition halls for both permanent and temporary exhibitions.

The museum's collection consists of thousands of religious works of art. The permanent exhibition displays statues, mandala (paintings representing metaphysical maps of the cosmos), and various other religious tools and paintings, the most notable of which is the scroll depicting the "Reclining Image of Sakyamuni Buddha on His Last Day". Additionally, a rotating temporary exhibition displays a seasonal selection chosen from the museum's collection.

Daishi Kyokai (大師教会, Daishi Kyōkai) is the administrative center of Shingon Buddhism, and is responsible for spreading the teachings of Kobo Daishi, the sect's founder. The complex consists of two buildings: Henjoden, a traditional temple hall, that was built in 1915 and is dedicated to Kobo Daishi, and a modern building for administration, lectures and training.

Visitors can participate in a few activities at Daishi Kyokai, such as receiving Buddhist precepts (jukai) or copying Buddhist scriptures (shakyo). No advance reservations are required.

The Tokugawa Mausoleum (徳川家霊台, Tokugawa-ke Reidai) on Koyasan was built in 1643 by the third Tokugawa shogun Iemitsu in order for his family to have a mausoleum close to Kobo Daishi's mausoleum. It consists of two buildings which enshrine Iemitsu's grandfather Ieyasu and father Hidetada, the first two Tokugawa shogun.

The mausoleum's two identical buildings took twenty years to be completed and were built in the extravagant style of the early Edo Period with graceful sloping roofs, rich ornamentation, intricate carvings, lacquer and gold leaf. The two buildings stand side by side. The one on the right enshrines Ieyasu and the one on the left Hidetada.

What's not included

Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses

You cannot combine multiple tour groups.

Guide Entry fees are only covered for sights listed under What to Expect.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Service animals allowed

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

There are only a limited number of car seats and booster seats. Rear-facing car seats are not available. You must contact us directly if you need them.

About Osaka

Osaka is a vibrant, bustling city known for its rich culinary scene, historic sites, and modern entertainment. As Japan's second-largest metropolitan area, it offers a dynamic mix of traditional culture and contemporary urban life.

Top Attractions

Osaka Castle

A iconic symbol of Osaka, this castle was originally built in the 16th century and has been beautifully restored. It offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal history and features a museum and scenic park.

Historical 2-3 hours 600 JPY

Dotonbori

A lively and colorful entertainment district known for its neon lights, street food, and vibrant nightlife. Dotonbori is a must-visit for foodies and those looking to experience Osaka's energetic atmosphere.

Entertainment 2-3 hours Free (food and shopping vary)

Universal Studios Japan

A popular theme park featuring attractions based on famous movies and characters, including Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, and Jurassic Park. It's a great destination for families and thrill-seekers.

Entertainment Full day 8,400-10,600 JPY (varies by season and tickets)

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

One of the largest aquariums in the world, featuring a wide variety of marine life, including whales, sharks, and penguins. The aquarium is known for its impressive exhibits and educational programs.

Nature 2-3 hours 2,600 JPY

Shinsekai

A retro district with a nostalgic atmosphere, featuring the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower and a variety of local eateries. Shinsekai is known for its unique blend of old and new, offering a glimpse into Osaka's past.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free (food and shopping vary)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Takoyaki

Octopus-filled batter balls, cooked to perfection and topped with savory sauces and bonito flakes. A must-try street food in Osaka.

Snack Contains seafood, can be made vegetarian upon request

Okonomiyaki

A savory pancake made with cabbage, batter, and various toppings, cooked on a griddle. Often referred to as 'Japanese pizza.'

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request

Kushikatsu

Deep-fried skewers of various meats, vegetables, and seafood, served with a dipping sauce. A specialty of the Shinsekai district.

Dinner Contains seafood and meat, can be made vegetarian upon request

Ramen

Noodle soup dish with various broths, toppings, and noodle types. Osaka is known for its rich and flavorful ramen.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Cycling tours Kayaking and water sports Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Gardens and parks Temple and shrine visits Traditional workshops (e.g., calligraphy, ikebana)

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

These months offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Cherry blossoms in March and April add to the appeal.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

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

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Osaka is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public safety. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis and reputable tour operators

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 50 km from city center
Itami Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Osaka Station, Shin-Osaka Station

By bus

Osaka Station Bus Terminal, Umeda Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The Osaka Metro system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It consists of eight lines that connect major attractions, shopping districts, and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Umeda Namba Shin-Osaka Tennoji

Day trips

Kyoto

50 km • Full day

A historic city known for its temples, shrines, and traditional architecture. Kyoto offers a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage and is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.

Nara

40 km • Half day to full day

A historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer. Nara offers a mix of history, culture, and nature.

Kobe

30 km • Full day

A port city known for its historic sites, scenic views, and delicious beef. Kobe offers a mix of culture, history, and culinary delights.

Festivals

Tenjin Matsuri • July 24-25 Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri • September 14-15 Osaka Castle Illumination • December (specific dates vary)

Pro tips

Use an IC card, such as ICOCA or Suica, for easy and convenient payments on public transportation, vending machines, and convenience stores
Try local specialties, such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu, at street food stalls and local restaurants
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and long lines
Explore the city's unique neighborhoods, such as Dotonbori, Shinsekai, and Den Den Town, to experience the diverse culture and atmosphere of Osaka
Take advantage of the city's extensive public transportation system, including the Osaka Metro, JR trains, and buses, to easily navigate and explore the city