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