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