【Sacred Autumn Colors】Koyasan Okunoin Autumn Foliage Highlights

📍 Basic Information
🪨 Name: Koyasan Okunoin
📮 Location: 550 Koyasan, Koya Town, Ito District, Wakayama Prefecture
⏰ Best Time to Visit for Autumn Foliage: Late October to mid-November
🚗 Access:
Public Transportation: Take the Nankai Rinkan Bus from Nankai Koyasan Station → Get off at "Okunoin Entrance" or "Ichinohashi Entrance"
Pathway Walk: Stroll along the approximately 2km pathway from "Ichinohashi" to Kobo Daishi's Mausoleum (about 40 minutes)
✨ Highlights (Autumn Foliage Season)
Koyasan Okunoin is the spiritual center of Koyasan, where Kobo Daishi (Kukai) is believed to still be meditating. In autumn, the vibrant red and yellow leaves of maple trees contrast beautifully with the towering centuries-old cedar trees, creating a solemn and breathtaking atmosphere.
Mystical Pathway Foliage:
The 2km-long pathway is lined with over 200,000 gravestones and memorial towers, including those of Sengoku-era warlords. The green canopy of cedar trees combined with the vivid autumn foliage creates a unique and mystical scenery.
Early Morning Serenity and Foliage:
While the autumn season can be crowded, early mornings offer a tranquil experience with fewer visitors and crisp air. The subdued colors of the foliage before sunlight hits them are particularly enchanting.
Access and Strolling:
The main autumn foliage spots are along the pathway. Getting off at the "Okunoin Entrance" bus stop and walking from Ichinohashi to the mausoleum follows the traditional pilgrimage route and is highly recommended for enjoying the autumn scenery.
【Additional Note】
Other popular autumn foliage spots in Koyasan include the Danjo Garan area. However, the pathway to Okunoin stands out for its unique blend of history and natural beauty.

Post by futaritabi | Sep 30, 2025