2024 Koya Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in December)

A designated National Treasure

The larger purpose of the temple is to serve as the headquarters of the Buddhist Shingon sect. founded by the monk Kobo Daishi, whose mausoleum can be found at nearby Okunoin Temple. While it is architecturally satisfying from the outside, take off your shoes and step through the doors Very good experience to learn shingo buddhism intorduced by kobo daishi. 1000 yen to enter and see more sights but you can't take pictures in the inside, only the outer area like the rocks and greenery. Especially the garden, which is full of Zen #songkran2024#mytravelhacks#cherryblossom2024#historicallandmarks#localguides#familytrip#trip#instatravel#goodfoods#langkawi#foodphotography#chinatown#ipoh#temples#familyfun#siemreap#edinburgh#คาเฟ่ห้ามพลาด

[Wakayama] Kongobu-ji Temple, founded by Kobo Daishi

I went to Kongobu-ji Temple, one of the two major tourist spots in Mount Koya. It is a sacred place of Esoteric Shingon Buddhism founded by Kobo Daishi, and is also the head temple of the Koyasan Shingon sect. When I visited in mid-April, the cherry blossoms were in full bloom, making it the perfect place for a recommended cherry blossom viewing🌸 Admission fee: Junior high school students and above: 1,000 yen, elementary school students: 300 yen, preschoolers: free #trip2023 #MountKoya

Fall Breeze and Autumn Leaves in Japan

One of the best places to admire the autumn colors in Wakayama Prefecture is in the mountains of Koyasan. The best time to visit this place is late October until early November. Expect a crowd of tourist on this place so better go early to enjoy the experience. You can reach Koyasan from Gobo, Wakayama for about 1.5Hrs by car. Be ready with a cold weather since this place is situated in a mountain. More than the different colors of autumn leaves, you can enjoy the huge temples. It is said to be the home of 100 buddhist temples. #japanautumn

On our recent trip to Japan we visited a number of busy cities and we wanted to have a couple of days out and Mount Koya was a great choice. It took us a couple of hours and a number of train rides to get there but it was absolutely worth it. A very tranquil little town Koyasan was set among centuries old pine forests and the quiet Buddhist temples and serene setting was just what we needed to take a break from the neon lights. All the notable sights are within walking distance and the air is so clear you would be silly not to take leisurely strolls around the parks and the beautiful Okunoin cemetery. A tourist office in the heart of town can provide you more information on the sights and important events. This is one of the most spiritual places in Japan. Not yet part of the standard tourist trip in Japan but it’s worth a visit. I suggest to sleep in a temple to really feel the atmosphere of the place. #givethanks #givethanks

The small mountaintop Buddhist community of Mount Koya (Koyasan) is one of Japan’s most magical, if increasingly popular, destinations and the perfect place to spend a night at a Buddhist temple in shukubo temple lodgings. Located in a remote wooded area of Wakayama Prefecture, south of Kyoto and Osaka, Koyasan (as it is called in Japanese) is the headquarters of the Shingon school of Buddhism, and home to more than 100 temples and monasteries.

Mount Koyasan is a magical place, high in the mountains about 2 hours by train from Osaka. It is the “headquarters” of Shinto Buddhism, which gives it a very peaceful atmosphere. You can sleep in a local temple and enjoy a vegetarian meal, see the photo for a feel of how many different dishes. Tip: after dinner take a walk through town, even more serene and in my opinion an unforgettable experience.

Koyasan UNESCO World Heritage temple lodging

"Finding tranquility amidst ancient temples and timeless traditions 🌿✨ #KoyasanMagic #TempleStay #soulfuljourneys #Templelodging #koyasan #travel #meditationretreat 📍Address: Koyasan Unesco World Heritage

Mount Koya: A great place to see the autumn leaves in Wakayama Prefecture, away from the crowds.

Mount Koya is located in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. This year marks the 20th anniversary of Mount Koya being listed as a World Heritage Site. The Kongobu-ji Temple at the top of the mountain was founded by the monk Kukai, and has a history of 1,200 years. 🚉Transportation tips: We recommend purchasing a Nankai 2-Day Pass in advance. From Namba Station in Osaka, take the Nankai Electric Railway to Hashimoto, transfer to another Nankai Electric Railway train to Gokurakubashi, and then take the cable car to Mount Koya. Buy a one-day bus pass at Mount Koya Station, and you can take the bus on the mountain as you like. 📝Tips: We recommend getting off at Okunoin first, and getting a map at the tourist information center. Walk to Kongobu-ji Temple from Okunoin. Take the bus to Senjuinbashi. Some of the important attractions on Mount Koya are nearby, such as Danjo Garan, which can be reached on foot. ❤Recommended because: Compared to popular attractions such as Kyoto, Mount Koya is almost free of crowds, and the maple leaves turn red earlier.

Stay at a Temple @Koyasan

Koyasan is one of Japan's significant cultural and religious tourist destinations, located in Wakayama Prefecture. It is the center of Shingon Buddhism and has been registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the 'Kii Mountain Range Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes.' Highlights of Koyasan 1. Kongobuji Temple • The main temple of Shingon Buddhism • Home to the largest rock garden in Japan 2. Okunoin Cemetery • A large cemetery surrounded by cedar forests • The resting place of Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism 3. Danjo Garan Complex • The center of religious practice in Koyasan • Features the red 'Konpon Daito Pagoda,' a symbol of the area 4. Temple Lodging (Shukubo) • Visitors can stay overnight at temples in Koyasan • Enjoy traditional Japanese vegetarian meals (Shojin Ryori) and participate in morning prayers 5. Koyasan Choishi Michi Pilgrimage Route • A historic 24-kilometer walking route with stone markers every 109 meters Getting to Koyasan 1. From Osaka: • Start at Namba Station • Take the Nankai Koya Line to Gokurakubashi Station (about 1 hour 30 minutes) • From Gokurakubashi Station: • Take the Cable Car to Koyasan Station (about 5 minutes) • From Koyasan Station: • Take a local bus to reach various temples and tourist spots 2. Recommended Pass: • Koyasan World Heritage Ticket • Covers round-trip travel from Osaka and bus usage in Koyasan Best Times to Visit • Autumn Leaves (late October - November): Trees around Koyasan turn beautiful red and yellow • Winter: Snow-covered scenery offers a serene atmosphere • Spring (April): Cherry blossom season Visiting Tips • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as Okunoin Cemetery and various routes require considerable walking • Stay overnight at a temple to experience Buddhism up close • Don't miss the nighttime illumination at Okunoin, which provides a mysterious and peaceful ambiance

The Final Chapter of the Shikoku Pilgrimage - Completion Certificate.

DAY 35: After completing the pilgrimage to the 88 sacred sites of Shikoku, this morning we head to Toji Temple in Kyoto, and in the afternoon, we visit Kongobuji Temple in Mount Koya, marking the end of the pilgrimage to the three major sacred sites of Kobo Daishi. The five-story pagoda, standing at 55 meters, is the tallest wooden structure in Japan. On the west side, the 'Lotus Gate' is said to be where Kobo Daishi, in his later years, left Toji Temple for seclusion in Mount Koya. It is believed that Fudo Myo-o, feeling deep regret, appeared at this gate to bid farewell. With each step Daishi took, lotus flowers bloomed, and Fudo Myo-o tearfully watched him until he disappeared from sight. Daishi spent the rest of his life in Mount Koya and never returned to Toji Temple, attaining Buddhahood in Okunoin. Additionally, the 'Treasure House' (an important cultural property) by the lotus pond is a warehouse that stores esoteric Buddhist implements and precious scriptures. It is said that Ishikawa Goemon, the greatest thief in history, once attempted to steal from it but failed. Mount Koya was founded by Kobo Daishi in 816 AD, with Kongobuji Temple being the head temple of the Koyasan Shingon sect. It includes two major sacred sites: Okunoin and Danjo Garan. In the deepest part of Okunoin is the mausoleum (a place where great figures are enshrined), where people believe Daishi still lives, continuously praying and meditating for world peace and human happiness. For 1200 years, a meal offering ceremony has been held twice daily without interruption. Along the 2-kilometer pilgrimage path to the mausoleum, there are 700-year-old cedar trees and over 200,000 tombstones and memorial tablets of people from all walks of life, including famous warlords from the Sengoku period like Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Oda Nobunaga. Transportation Costs: JR Kobe (Hyogo) - Kyoto ¥1110 JR Kyoto - Osaka - Namba ¥820 Nankai Electric Railway Namba - Hashimoto - Koyasan Station ¥1430 Bus Koyasan Station - Kongobuji Temple ¥360 Bus Okunoin - Koyasan Station ¥510 Nankai Electric Railway Koyasan Station - Hashimoto - Namba ¥1430 JR Namba - Kobe (Hyogo) ¥700 Additional Notes: Both Kongobuji Temple and Okunoin in Mount Koya have places to stamp pilgrimage books. You can receive a special Goshuin (stamp) commemorating the 1250th anniversary of Kobo Daishi's birth at Toji Temple and Kongobuji Temple (until December 31, 2024). After completing the pilgrimage to the 88 sacred sites of Shikoku and the pilgrimage to Kongobuji Temple and Okunoin, you can receive a 'Completion Certificate' at Toji Temple. Pilgrimage Sites Visited: Kyoto Kyoogokokuji (Toji Temple) Mount Koya Kongobuji Temple, Danjo Garan, Konpon Daito, Pilgrimage Path Stone Monument, Gobyo Bridge, Okunoin, Kobo Daishi's Mausoleum Accommodation: Toyoko INN Kobe Station North Exit, Kobe City Today's Cycling Distance: 0 km Total Cycling Distance: 1970 km

Koyasan Spiritual Heart of Japan

Koyasan [Mount Koya, 高野山] is one of the World Heritage Sites on the Kii Mountain Range of Japan. It is considered to be the spiritual heart of Japan. Koyasan is a sacred Buddhist site that was established by Kobo Daishi (Kukai) [空海,弘法大師)] in the 9th century. Many people visiting Kansai region may miss this place but worth visiting. Journey up to Koyasan is easy. Just go to Namba Station, buy a Nankai Koya Line discount ticket cost JPY3,540; which includes train from Osaka Namba Station to Gokurakubashi Station, Cable Car to Koyasan Station, 2 days unlimited ride on bus in Koyasan and return cable car and train back to Namba Station. Key Areas to Walking around Koyasan 1. Daimon Gate (Serving as Koyasan’s main entrance, the Great Gate is a spectacle of design standing nearly 25m tall. The Daimon Gate is the first structure visitors coming up the pilgrimage route see when arriving in Koyasan.) 2. Danjo Garan Sacred Temple Complex (One of the two sacred sites in Koyasan. The Danjo Garan Sacred Temple Complex was founded by Kobo Daishi (Kukai) when he returned to Japan from China as a place where Buddhist monks could peacefully study his newly found Shingon Esoteric sect of Buddhism. Kondo the central hall of Koyasan, Konpon Daito where enshrines a statue of Dainichi Nyorai (Buddha Mahavairocana) as the main statue.) 3. Kongobuji Head Temple (Koyasan’s head temple. Kongobuji also refers to the entirety of the Koyasan area. It is the main temple for around 4,000 branch temples of the Shingon Esoteric sect of Buddhism.) 4. Okunoin (Koyasan’s most sacred site. Okunoin cemetery is the largest cemetery in Japan stretching 2km long with over 200,000 tombstones. Okunoin is the location of Kobo Daishi Kukai’s Mausoleum, where it is said he still remains today in eternal prayer.) Koyasan maybe not a too heavily-visited area but it’s worth a trip if you are near Osaka and like temples and nature and some quiet time. #koyasan #高野山 #osaka #japan #travel

Visit Koyansan World Heritage with Nankai All Line 2 Day Pass

#japantrip Koyasan, A world heritage sites & head temple of Shingon Buddhism. You can reach here by using Nankai All Line 2 Day Pass (buy at trip.com) only cause you 2000yen and you can use it to transfer to airport as well. The pass included cable car to Koyasan station. During the trip you have chance to look at the stunning view of koyasan and experience Japanese style temple and lifestyle. Getting There - Take Nankai Koyasan Line from Namba station to Hashimoto station then change line to Gokurakubashi Station and take cable to up to Koyasan station. These return trip transport is covered by the Nankai 2 day pass, then take bus to Daimon Gate which is starting point for the attraction. Attractions - Kongobu-ji Okuno-in, Kongobuji Temple, Daimon Gate Hotels - Experience extraordinary retreat in one of the 52 Temple offering accommodation Food & Restaurants - Experience Shojin Ryori, Buddhist style vegetarian cuisine for body and soul Shopping - Forget about shopping, do meditation or copying sutras to experience monk lifestyle #osaka #japan #wakayama #koyasan #nankaitrain

Experience Spiritual Camping at Koyasan

#campingfun Koyasan, located in the mountains of Wakayama, is not only a spiritual center but also a fantastic place for a unique camping experience. Surrounded by centuries-old temples and towering cedar trees, the camping grounds in Koyasan offer a peaceful, meditative environment. Camping here allows you to immerse yourself in the sacred atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site, while still enjoying the simplicity of outdoor living. Many campers enjoy combining their stay with temple lodging (shukubo) experiences or exploring Okunoin Cemetery by night. For those seeking #CampingFun with a cultural twist, Koyasan is an unforgettable destination that combines nature, spirituality, and history.

#koyasan #japan

Mount Koyasan, Japan

In August we visited the sacred mountain Koyasan - an interesting and very mysterious place! There are several ways to get here: 🔸Buy an excursion and go with a guide, by the way, excursions can be bought on Trip.com. 🔸Go on your own and pay for everything in cash or with a transport card. 🔸The option we chose - we bought a Koyasan heritage pass, which covers the road in both directions and gives unlimited travel for two days on buses running on Mount Koyasan. We visited the Okunoin cemetery, about which I cannot write anything, I just ask you to try to soak up the atmosphere of this place, and best of all, come here yourself! #koyasan #okunoin #japan #japantrip

A special place

#japantrip Koyasan has become a staple on my Osaka holidays. I get the nankai electric day pass specially for koyasan and it is all worth it. Make sure you get an early start because the train travel takes well above and hour each way. To tell you about the place. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, covered with many temples. Also home to Japan’s largest cemetery, the Okunoin Cemetery. Not just any normal cemetery, a moss-lined pathway in the forest leads to the mausoleum and the final resting place of Kobo Daishi. There are even a temple stay option, but I am mostly in favour of a day trip. Having said so, many people recommend the stay. What I love so much is the trails and sights during different seasons. I think autumn is the most beautiful time to visit koyasan. #japantrip #cherryblossom2024 #templestay #koyasan

A religious city steeped in age-old traditions 🇯🇵

#japantrip Mount Koya, a religious city steeped in age-old traditions, is arguably Japan's most mystical sacred mountain. This enchanting destination cannot be merely described; it must be experienced. Koyasan, with its hostel temples and necropolis forest, offers an invitation to spirituality and reflection. Historically secluded, this sacred enclave has preserved its profound atmosphere, making it a unique retreat for those seeking solace and insight. Visitors can stay in temple lodgings (shukubo), partake in morning prayers, and explore the serene, wooded cemetery of Okunoin. The timeless traditions and serene environment of Mount Koya provide a deeply enriching experience, blending spirituality, history, and nature in a way that touches the soul.

Japan’s most sacred mountain 🇯🇵

#japantrip Of all the mountains in Wakayama Prefecture, Mount Koya stands proudly as one of Japan’s most sacred sites. Over 1200 years ago, the revered monk Kobo Daishi (also known as Kukai) chose this mountaintop to establish his Esoteric Buddhist dojo. Today, Mount Koya remains a profound spiritual center, home to over 100 temples and monasteries. Visitors can stay in temple lodgings (shukubo), participate in morning prayers, and savor traditional vegetarian monk’s cuisine. The serene, wooded environment and historical depth offer a unique retreat, blending spirituality, history, and natural beauty. Exploring Mount Koya provides an enriching journey into the heart of Japanese Buddhism, reflecting centuries of devotion and cultural heritage.

A serene escape amidst lush landscapes 🇯🇵

#japantrip Visiting Mount Koya, also known as Koyasan, is essential for anyone interested in the history and spirituality of Buddhism in Japan. This sacred mountaintop, home to numerous monk-run temples, offers a serene escape amidst lush landscapes. Even those with a fleeting interest in religion will find themselves captivated by the tranquility and beauty of this secluded retreat. The atmosphere of Mount Koya, rich with centuries-old traditions and natural splendor, provides a unique and calming experience. Visitors can stay in temple lodgings (shukubo), join morning prayers, and explore the scenic surroundings. Whether for spiritual enrichment or peaceful reflection, Mount Koya stands as a fascinating and beautiful destination.

A testament to a rich spiritual heritage 🇯🇵

#japantrip Visiting Mount Koya offers a profound connection to one of Japan's most sacred sites, established over 1200 years ago by the revered monk Kobo Daishi (Kukai). Chosen as the site for his Esoteric Buddhist dojo, Mount Koya stands as a testament to a rich spiritual heritage. Visitors can immerse themselves in the essence of Japanese Buddhism through a variety of activities, such as staying in temple lodgings (shukubo), participating in morning prayers, and exploring ancient temples and the Okunoin cemetery. These experiences provide invaluable insights into the traditions and practices of Shingon Buddhism, allowing travelers to appreciate the deep spiritual significance and historical legacy of this revered mountaintop sanctuary.

A peaceful retreat amidst stunning natural beauty 🇯🇵

#japantrip Visiting Mount Koya is a rewarding experience, easily accessible from Osaka and Kyoto, which has contributed to its recent surge in visitors. Despite the increase in tourism, Koyasan retains its serene and spiritual allure. This sacred mountaintop community offers a profound glimpse into Buddhism, history, traditional culture, and nature. Home to over 100 temples and monasteries, Koyasan provides unique opportunities such as staying in shukubo temple lodgings, participating in morning prayers, and savoring vegetarian monk’s cuisine. The tranquil environment and rich heritage make Mount Koya an ideal destination for travelers seeking a deeper understanding of Japanese spirituality and a peaceful retreat amidst stunning natural beauty.

A deeper connection with Japan’s spiritual heritage 🇯🇵

#japantrip Visiting Mount Koya is a captivating journey into one of Japan’s most enchanting destinations. Nestled in a remote, wooded area of Wakayama Prefecture, south of Kyoto and Osaka, this mountaintop Buddhist community is both serene and spiritually rich. Koyasan, home to over 100 temples and monasteries, offers a unique opportunity to stay overnight in a Buddhist temple lodging, known as shukubo. This experience allows visitors to immerse themselves in the monastic lifestyle, including participating in morning prayers and enjoying vegetarian monk’s cuisine. Despite its increasing popularity, Koyasan retains a magical atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking peace and a deeper connection with Japan’s spiritual heritage.

A glimpse into the profound religious heritage of the area 🇯🇵

#japantrip Visiting Mount Koya is an exploration of both spiritual and historical treasures. In July 2004, numerous sites in Koyasan and its surrounding pilgrimage routes were designated as World Heritage Sites. This prestigious registration includes the Koya Sankei-michi and Choishi-michi routes, which lead pilgrims through serene landscapes to the sacred grounds. Among the recognized locations are six sites connected to the head Shingon temple, Kongobu-ji, and twelve other significant buildings within Koyasan. These historic and cultural landmarks offer a glimpse into the profound religious heritage of the area. Walking these ancient paths and visiting these revered sites, visitors are immersed in the timeless traditions and spiritual ambiance that define Mount Koya.

A profound journey through history and spirituality 🇯🇵

#japantrip Visiting Mount Koya offers a profound journey through history and spirituality. First settled in 819 by the monk Kūkai, this sacred site serves as the world headquarters of the Kōyasan Shingon sect of Japanese Buddhism. Perched on an 800-meter-high plain surrounded by eight peaks, the location was chosen for its lotus-like terrain. Originally a solitary monastery, it has since evolved into the town of Kōya. Here, visitors can explore ancient temples, engage in spiritual practices, and absorb the serene beauty of the landscape. The combination of historical significance, cultural richness, and natural splendor makes Mount Koya a uniquely immersive experience, offering deep insight into the essence of Japanese Buddhism.

The Kongobu-ji

#japantrip Kongobu-Ji is a very nice temple complex which is considered the original center of Shingon Buddhism. The temple complex and garden are very well kept and there is a tour that leeds you past a large number of very beautiful sliding doors that tell the story of Kukai. In the back there is a beautiful rock garden that is worth a visit as well. There is an entrance fee of 1000yen but it's worthwhile.

Deeply enriching and contemplative retreat for all who visit 🇯🇵

#japantrip Visiting Mount Koya is a journey into a realm where history, culture, and nature converge harmoniously. This sacred site in Wakayama prefecture stands as a bastion of spiritual tranquility, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in its serene ambiance. Koyasan, the heart of Shingon Buddhism, offers a rich tapestry of experiences: exploring ancient temples, strolling through the serene Okunoin cemetery, and marveling at the beauty of its lush forests. Staying in a temple lodging (shukubo) allows visitors to experience the monastic lifestyle, complete with vegetarian monk's cuisine (shojin ryori) and morning prayers. Mount Koya's unique blend of natural beauty and spiritual heritage provides a deeply enriching and contemplative retreat for all who visit.

Mount Koya emerges as a sacred sanctuary 🇯🇵

#japantrip Nestled in Wakayama prefecture, south of Osaka, Mount Koya is a profound spiritual retreat and a significant site in Shingon Buddhism. Koyasan offers a unique experience for visitors with its temple lodgings, known as shukubo, where one can immerse in a monk's lifestyle. Staying overnight in one of the fifty temples that provide this service, guests can savor the simplicity of vegetarian monk's cuisine, shojin ryori, and participate in morning prayers. This serene environment, combined with the daily routines of temple life, offers a rare opportunity for reflection and spiritual rejuvenation. Whether you are a pilgrim or a traveler seeking tranquility, Mount Koya's blend of nature and spirituality promises a deeply enriching experience.

best vegetarian in koyasan

Koyasan bring you back to the historical time and also bring you alot flavor of the past and also vegetarian. A city must visit#koya Address - Koya san Ambiance/Facilities - vegetarian Highlights - food Avg. Price per Person - 1000 to 2000 Rating - 8 out of 10

A sanctuary for introspection and enlightenment 🇯🇵

#japantrip Nestled amidst the lush forests of Wakayama prefecture, Mount Koya stands as a bastion of spiritual tranquility, beckoning travelers to immerse themselves in its serene ambiance. Home to the revered Kongobu-ji temple, the epicenter of Shingon Buddhism's Koyasan sect, Mount Koya is steeped in centuries of sacred tradition. As visitors traverse its winding paths, flanked by towering cedar trees and ancient stone monuments, they are enveloped in a profound sense of reverence. The air is filled with the faint aroma of incense, and the distant echoes of chanting monks lend a surreal quality to the experience. Amidst the breathtaking beauty of nature, Mount Koya offers a sanctuary for introspection and enlightenment, a timeless haven where the spirit finds solace and renewal.

Japan’s sacred Mount Koya 🇯🇵

#japantrip Perched atop Mount Koya, Koyasan emerges as a sanctuary of serenity and spiritual significance, beckoning visitors to pause and immerse themselves in its tranquil embrace. Revered as one of Japan's most sacred destinations, Koyasan offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of modern life. The Buddhist ambiance, permeating the air with a sense of profound tranquility, invites introspection and reflection. Amidst the quietude, visitors are encouraged to reconnect with themselves, to breathe deeply, and to listen to the whispers of their soul. While meditation is central to the experience, Koyasan also entices with its abundance of scenic treasures waiting to be discovered, offering opportunities for both spiritual contemplation and active exploration amidst its majestic surroundings.