Join a guided full-day tour to Mount Koya and uncover its rich history and spiritual charm. With an expert guide, visit ancient temples, explore Japan’s largest cemetery, and learn about Buddhist culture. Enjoy a stress-free experience with scenic views and meaningful insights into this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Guide Fees (their Entrance, Lunch and Transport Fees)
What's not included
Lunch: around 2,500 JPY/person Transport Fees (around 3,700 JPY/person/day) Entrance Fees: Kongobuji Temple (1000 JPY/person)
The booking is non-refundable if you cancel within 1 day of the start time.
Itinerary
Start the day with a train ride from Osaka, leaving the busy city behind. Watch as the scenery changes from urban areas to peaceful countryside. The journey ends with a scenic cable car ride up the mountain, offering beautiful views of the region.
2
Duration: 30 minutes
Visit Daimon Gate, the grand entrance to Mount Koya. This massive wooden gate welcomes you to the sacred mountain and its spiritual atmosphere.
3
Duration: 1 hour
Explore the Danjo Garan temple complex, a key site for Shingon Buddhism. See the iconic pagoda and other historic buildings while learning about their importance.
4
Duration: 45 minutes
Stop at Kongobu-ji, the head temple of Shingon Buddhism. Built in the 16th century, it features stunning rock gardens and detailed artwork inside.
5
Duration: 30 minutes
Visit the resting place of two powerful Tokugawa shoguns. This peaceful spot is filled with history and offers a glimpse into the legacy of Japan’s samurai leaders.
6
Duration: 1.5 hours
Walk through Okunoin, the largest cemetery in Japan, with over 200,000 gravestones. At the far end, visit the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi, a revered figure in Japanese Buddhism.
Wrap up the day around 5:00 PM. Take the cable car down the mountain and enjoy a relaxing train ride back to Osaka, reflecting on your visit to this peaceful and historic place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Unlike many temple districts, Mount Koya is an active monastic community with over 100 temples, many of which still serve as training centers for monks. Its remote mountain setting and centuries-old cedar forests create a peaceful, otherworldly atmosphere you won’t find in most cities.
Photography is welcome in many areas, but some temple interiors and sacred spots—particularly in Okunoin—prohibit it. Your guide will let you know where photos are allowed and help you capture respectful, memorable shots.
Yes, there are clean public restrooms at major temple sites, the visitor center, and near public transport hubs.
Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions. In fact, the mist and rain can make the cedar forests and temples feel even more mystical. Just bring an umbrella or raincoat.
