Things to do in Mount Koya

Our most recommended things to do in Mount Koya

From Osaka/Kyoto:Mount Koya, Wakayama & Nachi Waterfall Trip

From Osaka/Kyoto:Mount Koya, Wakayama & Nachi Waterfall Trip

Discover the enchanting sites of Wakayama on this customizable journey through history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Choose between two itinerary options, one focused on Wakayama and Mount Koya, and the other that includes a visit to the breathtaking Nachi Waterfall. Option 1: Without Nachi Waterfall Start your day exploring the historic 16th-century Wakayama Castle, with panoramic views and exhibits of samurai history and artifacts. Head to Mount Koya, a sacred Buddhist site, and visit the main temple of Shingon Buddhism, Kongobuji Temple, famed for its beautiful rock garden and serene halls. Dive into the history and art of the Shingon sect at the Mount Koya Museum. Wander the tranquil lantern-lit pathways of Japan’s largest cemetery, Okunoin Cemetery, honoring historical figures and monks. Conclude the day at the dramatic coastal cave of Sandanbeki Cave, with its storied pirate hideout and rugged cliffs. Option 2: With Nachi Waterfall Begin at Japan’s spiritual heart, Mount Koya, with its UNESCO-listed temples and peaceful landscapes. Delve into the practices of Shingon Buddhism at the main temple, Kongobuji Temple, with its beautiful traditional architecture. Explore unique exhibits highlighting the sacred art and history of Shingon Buddhism at the Mount Koya Museum. Discover the 176-year-old market in Mount Koya, a hidden gem with traditional crafts and local specialties. Walk along paths lined with centuries-old stone markers in Japan’s largest cemetery, Okunoin Cemetery. End the journey at Japan’s tallest single-tier waterfall, Nachi Waterfall. Surrounded by dense forest and the Nachi Taisha Shrine, this spectacular sight combines nature and spirituality.

From Osaka/Kyoto: Mount Koya & Wakayama Private Day Trip .

From Osaka/Kyoto: Mount Koya & Wakayama Private Day Trip .

Experience the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Wakayama Prefecture and Mount Koya on a private, fully customizable 10-hour tour. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, this tour allows you to explore at your own pace with a knowledgeable, English-speaking guide . Begin your day with convenient pick up service directly from your accommodation in Osaka. From there, travel comfortably in a private vehicle, ensuring a personalized and stress-free journey . Your first destination could be the majestic Mount Koya, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the center of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. At Mount Koya, you can start with the impressive Daimon Gate, the iconic crimson-painted gateway guarded by towering statues . Continue to Konpon Daito, the central pagoda of Mount Koya, where you can admire its vivid Buddhist murals and serene atmosphere. Your guide will provide insights into the religious significance of this site, enhancing your understanding of Japan's spiritual traditions. Next, visit Kongobu_ji Temple, the head temple of the Shingon sect. Marvel at its exquisite architecture, delicate sliding screen paintings, and the largest rock garden in Japan. Pause to enjoy a traditional Shoujin Ryori lunch, type of vegetarian Buddhist cuisine, offering a taste of the region's culinary heritage . For a truly spiritual experience , head to Okuno-in, Mount Koya’s most sacred site. Cross the Ichinohashi Bridge and walk along the Sandō path lined with centuries-old cedar trees to reach the famous Toro-do Hall, home to the eternal flame. Visit the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi, the revered founder of Shingon Buddhism, and reflect in the tranquil surroundings. Your private tour is entirely customizable, so you can choose to visit other notable sites in Wakayama Prefecture or focus on exploring more of Mount Koya, depending on your interests. The day concludes with a comfortable return to your Osaka accommodation, leaving you with memories of a unique cultural journey through Japan.

Have Fun in KANSAI Pass (1 Week Free Pass)

Have Fun in KANSAI Pass (1 Week Free Pass)

Experience unlimited fun with the Kansai Pass 1 Week Free Pass! Explore the vibrant Kansai region of Japan, filled with beautiful sights, rich history, and exciting adventures. This pass gives you the freedom to discover Kansai at your own pace. "Discover Iconic Landmarks" Visit famous landmarks like Osaka Castle, a 16th-century symbol of strength and beauty. Explore Kyoto's peaceful temples, including the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Kobe, known for its delicious food and vibrant streets. "Unleash Your Inner Adventurer" With the Kansai Pass 1 Week Free Pass, adventure awaits. Visit Mount Yoshino, famous for its cherry blossoms in spring, or hike the scenic Mount Koya, a UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient temples and nature trails. Whether you love nature or city adventures, Kansai has something for everyone. "Convenient and Easy" The Kansai Pass 1 Week Free Pass makes travel simple. Get unlimited access to trains, buses, and ferries, making it easy to explore Kansai’s cities and hidden treasures. No need to buy separate tickets or worry about language barriers—just relax and enjoy your journey.

Kyoto/Osaka: Mount Koya ,Wakayama & Nachi falls private Tour

Kyoto/Osaka: Mount Koya ,Wakayama & Nachi falls private Tour

Experience the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Wakayama Prefecture and Mount Koya on a private, fully customizable 10-hour tour. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, this tour allows you to explore at your own pace with a knowledgeable, English-speaking guide. Begin your day with convenient pick up service directly from your accommodation in Osaka. From there, travel comfortably in a private vehicle, ensuring a personalized and stress-free journey. Your first destination could be the majestic Mount Koya, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the center of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. At Mount Koya, you can start with the impressive Daimon Gate, the iconic crimson-painted gateway guarded by towering statues. Continue to Konpon Daito, the central pagoda of Mount Koya, where you can admire its vivid Buddhist murals and serene atmosphere. Your guide will provide insights into the religious significance of this site, enhancing your understanding of Japan's spiritual traditions. Next, visit Kongobu-ji Temple, the head temple of the Shingon sect. Marvel at its exquisite architecture, delicate sliding screen paintings, and the largest rock garden in Japan. Pause to enjoy a traditional Shoujin Ryori lunch, type of vegetarian Buddhist cuisine, offering a taste of the region's culinary heritage.

Mount Koya: Full-Day Private Guided Tour from Osaka

Mount Koya: Full-Day Private Guided Tour from Osaka

Come with us to visit Mount Koya, Japan’s spiritual and cultural jewel, for a day on foot and by public transport! We take the train and we sink into the deep countryside. This gives us a contrasting view between the lively city and the quiet nature, before reaching the top of the mountain by cable car. The Daimon gate welcomes us upon arrival. We are crossing this border between the human world and the spirit world. Then we walk and visit Danjo Garan, the historic center of the Shingon Buddhist sect since the 9th century, then the Kongobu-ji Temple, founded by the military dictator Hideyoshi Toyotomi, which now serves as an administrative center. We finally visit Oku no In. Japan’s largest cemetery houses the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi and 200,000 graves of people who wanted to rest with him. You will learn more about the history, culture and spirituality of Japan after this day. Are you coming? We are waiting for you!

Koyasan: A Mysterious Meditation Journey

Koyasan: A Mysterious Meditation Journey

Koyasan is one of the most influential centers of Buddhism in Japan. Its magnificent temples, vast buildings and rich Buddhist cultural activities have made it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, we will explore this sacred site of Japanese Buddhism with a history of more than 1,200 years. In the morning, our professional driver will pick you up at the door of your hotel to start your journey. We leave from Osaka/Kyoto and the drive will be about 2 hours. First, we will arrive at Koyasan Daimon Gate. Through the 25m height magnificent vermilion gates, you enter the mysterious realm of Koyasan; On either side, majestic wooden guardians stand guard over this ancient shrine. Once, the quiet place only open to men, after about 150 years of change, Koyasan is finally open to welcome every spiritual traveler, male or female. Stepping here, you will uncover the veil of history and experience a journey that transcends time and space. Climbing Koyasan, you are free to choose your next destination. You can choose to go to the total Koyasan Shingon Sect Main Temple Kongobu-ji, or you can choose to go to the Okuno-in of the Kobo Daishi (Kukai) , where countless nobles, celebrities and great samurai rest. On summer nights, you can see fireflies even flying squirrel. In addition, the Danjo Garan Sacred Temple and Koyasan Reihokan Museum are also great spots. Koyasan is also rich in Buddhist cultural activities, such as meditation, sutra copying, private guided tours by monks, and even the option to stay in one of the temples for long-term meditation. There is no need to rush your day trip, just relax and enjoy the good time in Koyasan. We will return to your hotel around evening. Our trip will also end here, and we hope you will have memories. If there are other places you would like to explore, we will be in touch after the booking.

One Day Private Customized Self-Guided Tour in Wakayama

One Day Private Customized Self-Guided Tour in Wakayama

Wakayama, Japan, entices visitors with its diverse attractions, including historic temples, pristine beaches, and scenic landscapes. From the sacred pilgrimage routes of Kumano Kodo to the tranquil beauty of Shirahama Beach and the cultural heritage of Wakayama Castle, whether exploring ancient sites, indulging in hot springs, or savoring local cuisine, Wakayama provides a memorable journey. You can fully customize your own itinerary in Wakayama or refer to our recommended route. If you want to customize your own tour, please select your most favorite attractions in Wakayama and share your other special requests with us. We will help you plan the route, draft an itinerary and make advanced reservations if necessary. REMARKS: You can always make change to the itinerary (Within Wakayama urban area) even while traveling on the vehicle, The tour is flexible to your own needs and goals. We provide departing from Osaka urban area. (Attention: we can only pick up customers live in urban areas.). We will contact you to confirm the tour details in advance. (For example: the number of passengers and the quantity of your luggage. The luggage defaults to 24 inches. And also the starting time of the day.) One day before the trip, you will receive the phone number of your driver for your convenience. Your driver will be waiting for you at a scheduled time and you will travel comfortably to your destination. We provide customer service, please feel free to contact us by email, WhatsApp, or phone. You can't select the drivers' nationality. We have drivers speaking English/Japanese/Chinese but they are arranged at random. The vehicles' pictures are for reference only, please refer to the actual situation for details. Please note that the schedule is for reference only, and the actual itinerary may change due to factors such as traffic, passenger flow and visit time. When confirming the itinerary with the driver, you can discuss and adjust it according to the specific situation.

Koyasan: Mt. Koya Guided Private Walking Day Tour

Koyasan: Mt. Koya Guided Private Walking Day Tour

Explore the pilgrimage site of Mt. Koya on a guided, private day tour. This small, secluded temple town is known as the center of Shingon Buddhism, a significant sect that was introduced to Japan in 805 A.D. by Kobo Daishi, also known as Kukai. Marvel at the array of temples on your tour. Begin your tour at Koyasan Station, where you'll meet your guide. From there, head up to the wooded mountaintop and enter through the sacred gate of Daimon. Admire the structure, which reaches an impressive 21.5 meters in height. Continue onwards toward Kongobuji, the head temple of Shingon Buddhism. Kobo Daishi began construction on the original Garan temple complex in 826 A.D. In 1593, Toyotomi Hideyoshi built this structure to commemorate the death of his mother; the temple was later merged with the Shingon sect. Venture further along the streets of temples to reach the temple Okunoin. This sacred place is the site of Kobo Daishi's mausoleum. Follow the quiet paths through the verdant forest and reflect on the spirituality of the historic temple grounds. . Lunch is not included. You can either prepare lunch before the tour or buy it during the tour.

Koyasan: Okuno-in Cemetery and Kobo Daishi 2 Hour Tour

Koyasan: Okuno-in Cemetery and Kobo Daishi 2 Hour Tour

Discover the sacred site of Koyasan Okuno-in with a local guide. Explore the numerous cemeteries and memorial towers lined up toward the place where Kobo Daishi, the famous monk who founded Koyasan 1,000 years ago, is said to have continued his meditation to this day. Stand at the place where Kobo Daishi is said to have continued his meditation to this day. Feel no sense of foreboding or dimness, only a quiet and sacred atmosphere. See numerous graves, including those of famous Japanese samurai. Imagine the smell of moss and cedar trees, and a space of silence filled with fog. The only sounds are those of water and birds.

Tour to recreate the Ise pilgrimage of the Edo (1600s A.D.)

Tour to recreate the Ise pilgrimage of the Edo (1600s A.D.)

9:00 Meet at Ise City, Toba City, or Shima City (This tour will be by car) Visit Married Couple Rocks and Futami Okitama Shrine In the past, people performed misogi by bathing in tidal water, but today, people perform misogi by visiting Futami Okitama Shrine. From Futami Okitama Shrine, you can also see Meoto-iwa. Visit the Geku (Toyouke Grand Shrine) of Ise Jingu The deity is Toyouke-no-omikami, the god of food and industry. After visiting the main shrine, you can also visit the separate shrines, Taka-no-miya, Tsuchi-no-miya, and Kaze-no-miya. We will have lunch at OHARAIMACHI and OKEGAYOKOCHO, the approach to the Inner Shrine of Ise Jingu (Imperial Grand Shrine). (This can be changed to a local restaurant if you prefer.) You can also buy Japanese traditional crafts and souvenirs in OHARAIMACHI and OKEGAYOKOCHO. Ise Jingu, Naiku (Koutai Jingu) The deity is Amaterasu Omikami, who is regarded as the general deity of the people. After visiting the main shrine, you can also visit the separate shrines, Aramatsuri-no-miya and Kazahinomi-no-Miya. Mt. Asama and Kongoshoji Temple This temple protects the demon's gate of Ise Jingu Shrine. After visiting the main hall, go to Okunoin Temple. On both sides of the path leading to the Okunoin Temple, stupas 2 to 8 meters high are erected. Take a footbath at the observatory near Mt. Asama and Kongoshoji Temple to relieve the fatigue of the day. 17:00 Dismissal to Ise City, Toba City, or Shima City

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Frequently asked questions about Mount Koya

What are the most popular museums and exhibitions in Mount Koya?

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What people are saying about Mount Koya

Overall rating

4.2 out of 5 stars
4.2
(70 reviews)
5
5 out of 5 stars

We had a very nice time doing the Wakayama & Nachi Waterfall tour. It was a test of perseverance for us who were all unfit. We had to walk flights of stairs to get to the Wakayama Castle & to see the waterfalls and the shrines. It was worth it though. Made new memories with friends. Thanks so much to Sunny, our tour guide. He was very polite and courteous. Made sure we were well informed of where we were going next and if we needed breaks. He also gave us a brief intro of each place before we started to explore each site. Overall, very good experience. :) Sunny you are the best. Definitely recommended.

5
5 out of 5 stars

Going to be honest, we got into the car at 8am and the driver said the first stop was 3 hours away!!! We didn’t want to spend over 7 hours in the car for the day. So we asked the driver if we could switch to an Osaka tour and day trip. The driver accommodated and helped plan us an Osaka tour and shopping trip. We were very grateful for the flexibility and planned our day together. Can’t really comment on what this tour was like, sure it was amazing but 5 stars for the drivers flexibility

5
5 out of 5 stars

Hamza was an amazing guide! The tour was fully customized, and he went above and beyond to ensure I was comfortable and enjoying the experience. He also takes great pictures! Wakayama and the surrounding areas were beautiful. He is very good guide explain everything about history of wakayam castle and koya san .I highly recommend this tour. Superb

5
5 out of 5 stars

We had a great time in an our last tour, Faizan, our guide was very kind and patient, thanks for showing us the beauty of this region, we would recommend it definitely! 🫶

5
5 out of 5 stars

We visited the sacred temple on Mount Koya and Wakayama Castle. Hamzah was very helpful, attentive to our requests, and a good driver.