Welcome to Koyasan, Japan – an absolutely gorgeous destination that’s often overlooked by travelers. Nestled in the heart of Mount Koya, this tranquil mountain town offers a unique blend of natural beauty, ancient history, and spiritual significance. I spent an unforgettable 2 days in Koyasan and it was one of the highlights of my 6 weeks in Japan. In this Koyasan travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the stunning landscapes, serene temples, and cultural treasures of this spiritual mountain town, revealing why it’s a must-visit spot for anyone exploring Japan.
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Table of Contents
The Complete Koyasan Japan Travel Guide
Why Visit Koyasan?
Visiting Koyasan is a must for those seeking a deeper connection to Japan’s rich history and culture. This ancient mountain town is renowned as the center of Shingon Buddhism, a spiritual practice with roots dating back over a thousand years.
Here, you can explore a plethora of well-preserved temples, some of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offering a unique glimpse into Japan’s religious heritage. Koyasan’s serene atmosphere and lush surroundings also make it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life, allowing you to unwind and find inner peace while soaking in the historical significance of this remarkable place.
Best Things to Do in Koyasan
1. Immerse Yourself in Temple Culture
Koyasan is synonymous with Buddhism, and a visit here wouldn’t be complete without exploring its remarkable temples. One of the must-visit sites is the Kongobu-ji Temple, the headquarters of Shingon Buddhism. Marvel at the intricately painted sliding doors and the stunning rock garden. Don’t forget to explore the tranquil halls and immaculate gardens of the Okunoin Temple, the final resting place of Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism.
2. Wander Through Okunoin Cemetery
Nestled amidst the ancient forests of Koyasan, Okunoin Cemetery is a place where time seems to stand still. Picture a serene realm where thousands of moss-covered tombstones and towering cedar trees create a mystical, almost surreal atmosphere. As you wander along its winding pathways, you’ll feel the whispers of history and spirituality in the air.
This is the final resting place of Kobo Daishi, the revered founder of Shingon Buddhism, and the sense of reverence is palpable. Don’t forget to visit the sacred lantern hall, where thousands of lanterns cast an enchanting glow during evening ceremonies, making Okunoin Cemetery a truly magical and humbling experience.
3. Stay in a Buddhist Monastery
For a truly immersive experience, consider spending a night in one of Koyasan’s Buddhist monasteries. We stayed at the Koyasan Saizenin for 2 nights and it was a fantastic experience. This unique opportunity allows you to live like a monk, participate in morning prayers, and savor traditional shojin ryori (vegetarian) meals. It’s a chance to connect with the spiritual essence of Koyasan and find inner peace.
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4. Explore the Town on Foot or by Bus
Koyasan is a compact town, and the best way to explore it is on foot. Wander through its charming streets, visit local shops, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Alternatively, hop on the local bus system, which is convenient for covering longer distances within the town.
The town itself is absolutely gorgeous and you could spend hours just exploring all of the small temples, cute streets and shops. I would allow for at least two hours to just get lost within Koyasan itself. You could definitely visit Koyasan as a day trip, but I suggest spending at least one night here.
5. Visit the Koyasan Reihokan Museum
The Koyasan Reihokan Museum is like a hidden treasure trove of Koyasan’s rich cultural heritage. Tucked away amidst the serene temples and towering cedar trees, this museum houses a fascinating collection of Buddhist artifacts and treasures.
From ancient manuscripts and intricate sculptures to historical relics, it’s a journey through time and spirituality. As you explore its halls, you can’t help but be captivated by the stories and craftsmanship behind each exhibit. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of Koyasan’s cultural tapestry and the profound influence of Buddhism in the region.
6. Hike the Choishi Michi Pilgrimage Trail
Take a journey through the verdant forests of Koyasan by hiking the Choishi Michi Pilgrimage Trail. This ancient path is lined with stone markers and leads to the Okunoin Cemetery. As you walk along this tranquil route, you’ll not only enjoy the natural beauty but also gain a deeper understanding of the spiritual significance of the area.
Where to Stay in Koyasan
Koyasan is a sacred, peaceful destination known for its temples, monasteries, and serene atmosphere. Staying here often means experiencing temple lodgings (shukubo), offering a unique spiritual immersion. Here are the top places to stay:
- Koyasan Temple Lodgings (Shukubo) – Staying in a temple is one of the best ways to experience Koyasan’s spiritual side. Many offer vegetarian meals (shojin ryori) and the chance to join morning prayers.
- Recommended Lodgings:
- Saizenin – A beautifully maintained temple lodging with traditional Japanese rooms, garden views, and a peaceful atmosphere. The vegetarian meals here are exceptional, and you’re steps away from Kongobuji Temple.
- Ekoin – One of the more popular temple lodgings, known for its friendly monks, stunning location near Okunoin Cemetery, and meditation sessions for guests.
- Recommended Lodgings:
- Central Koyasan – If you prefer to stay in a ryokan rather than a temple, the central area provides a peaceful retreat with easy access to Koyasan’s main attractions.
- Recommended Hotels:
- Henjoson-in – A traditional inn offering spacious rooms, a private onsen, and beautiful views over Koyasan’s nature, with easy access to temples.
- Kongo Sanmaiin – A mix of traditional ryokan and temple lodging, offering luxurious rooms with tatami floors, excellent meals, and a serene garden.
- Recommended Hotels:
Hotel Highlight: Koyasan Saizenin
Our stay at Saizenin was truly wonderful and special. The experience of staying in a real working Buddhist monastery is unique—being served by the monks and participating in their morning rituals made it deeply immersive.
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We were treated to a traditional vegan Buddhist meal (shojin ryori), which was not only delicious but also aligned with the spiritual practices of the temple. The onsen provided a relaxing escape in the evening, and the location was perfect—we could easily walk to all of Koyasan’s main sites.
I highly recommend a stay at Saizenin for anyone visiting Koyasan, as it’s a peaceful and authentic experience you won’t forget.
How to get to and around Koyasan
Getting to Koyasan is a breeze, and once you’re there, getting around is equally convenient. The easiest way to reach Koyasan is by taking a train to the nearby town of Gokurakubashi and then hopping on the Koyasan Cable Car, which takes you up the mountain.
To make things even simpler, consider getting the Koyasan Heritage Ticket, which includes your train and cable car fares, as well as unlimited bus rides within Koyasan. You can get the Koyasan Heritage ticket at Namba station in Osaka, which is the easiest station to access the route to Koyasan. The ride itself into Koyasan is worth the cost of the ticket, with beautiful views of the mountains and countryside.
Once you’re in town, exploring is a breeze – you can navigate the area on foot or use the local bus system, which is well-connected and easy to use. The Koyasan Heritage Ticket not only saves you money but also ensures a hassle-free experience while traveling to and getting around this captivating destination.
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Tips for Visiting Koyasan
- Koyasan Heritage Ticket-I suggest getting the Koyasan Heritage Ticket. You can select how many days you want the ticket for when purchasing. The ticket covers your train ride to Koyasan and back. You also get access to buses within the town and some discounts on the locals sights.
- When to Visit Koyasan-Since Koyasan is high in the mountains, it’s much cooler here than the major cities. I came in July and the weather was fantastic. I’ve heard that autumn is the best time to visit though to see all the changing colors of the leaves. I can also imagine that visiting in winter would be beautiful with all the snow falling around the temples.
- Get Connected using Airalo e-SIMS- Use Airalo e-SIMS for reliable and affordable cell phone data with an easy to use interface while in Japan.
- Plan Your Visit Well in Advance-Koyasan is relatively a small town and accommodation options book up far in advance. If you have a specific monastery you’d like to stay in, be sure to book at least a few weeks to months in advance. You shouldn’t need to book your attractions in advance though.
- Respect the Temples: Koyasan is a sacred place with numerous temples. Dress modestly when visiting, and be mindful of the rules and etiquette. Remove your shoes before entering temple buildings and maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.
- Participate in Morning Rituals: If you stay in a monastery, don’t miss the opportunity to join the morning prayers and meditation sessions.
- Pack Accordingly: Depending on the season, Koyasan can get quite cold, so pack appropriate clothing.
- Respect Nature: Koyasan is situated in a serene natural environment. Respect the environment by not littering and minimizing your impact on the pristine surroundings.
Conclusion
In the heart of Japan lies a place so enchanting that it feels like stepping into the scenes of Studio Ghibli’s “Spirited Away.” Koyasan, with its mystical temples, serene forests, and tranquil atmosphere, offers a journey to the soul of Japan.
As one of the most spiritual destinations in the country, it invites travelers to connect with centuries-old traditions and find inner peace. With its rich history, unique culture, and breathtaking natural beauty, Koyasan is undeniably a must-visit destination.
So, whether you seek spiritual enlightenment, cultural immersion, or simply a peaceful escape, make sure to include this place on your travel itinerary, and let its magic transport you to a world of wonder and tranquility. If there is one place that is a must-visit in Japan, Koyasan is that place in my opinion.
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