Koyasan: All the highlights of Koyasan with special guide
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.
Options
From/to Koyasan
Kohyasan All: This option starts from Koyasan and visits all the highlights of Koyasan in 4 hours.
What's included in Koyasan: All the highlights of Koyasan with special guide
(Subject to Option Inclusions)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.
Mt. Koya
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.
Kongobu-ji Temple
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.
Inclusions
- Admission to Okuno-in, Kongobuji Temple, and Danjo Garan
- Professional and experienced guide
- Guided tour of Koyasan
- Personal expenses
- Meals and beverages
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- 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
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting Points
- In front of the Namba Police Box. The guide will be holding the yellow sign.
- Public restroom in front of Naka-no-hashi bus stop. The guide will be holding the yellow sign.
End Points
- The tour will break up at Namba. Namba is one of Osaka's representative terminal stations.
- The tour will break up at Danjo Garan, the center of faith at Koyasan. You may continue sightseeing, or you may easily get on a bus to go elsewhere.
