Mt. Koya Attractions & Things to do

Our government-licensed and experienced multilingual guides will help you efficiently enjoy a one-day tour of UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site, Mt. Koya. Go on a full-day guided walking tour of Mt. Koya and learn about the modern and traditional aspects of one of the world’s most sacred mountains!

If you are staying in Osaka but would like to take some time out to enjoy some sights outside the big city, then this tour of Mount Koya in Wakayama Prefecture is for you! Meet your guide at your hotel (in Osaka, Kyoto, Wakayama, or around the Kansai area), then head to Mount Koya. Your guide will customize your full-day tour in detail according to your interests.

Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary.
Note*2: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.
Duration: 8 hours.

Our government-licensed and experienced multilingual guides will help you efficiently enjoy a one-day tour of UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site, Mt. Koya. Go on a full-day guided walking tour of Mt. Koya and learn about the modern and traditional aspects of one of the world’s most sacred mountains!

If you would like to take some time out to enjoy some sights outside the big city, then this tour of Mount Koya is for you! Meet your guide at Koyasan station, your private guide will customize your full-day tour in detail according to your interests.

Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary.
Note*2: National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.
Duration: 4 hours.

Mount Koya (高野山, Kōyasan) is the center of Shingon Buddhism, an important Buddhist sect which was introduced to Japan in 805 by Kobo Daishi (also known as Kukai), one of Japan's most significant religious figures. A small, secluded temple town has developed around the sect's headquarters that Kobo Daishi built on Koyasan's wooded mountaintop. It is also the site of Kobo Daishi's mausoleum and the start and endpoint of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage.

・Visit to Koyasan’s central temple complex with Private English Speaking Guide (Danjo Garan, Konpo Daito Pagoda, Okunoin Temple) 　
・Experience of Shojin Ryori (Japan's Sophisticated Buddhist Cuisine) for Lunch and Dinner at temple (Shukubo)
・Including transportation's fee (Nankai Train Tickets) between Namba station (Osaka) and Mt. Koya
Duration: 8 hours.

Embark on a pilgrimage to Koyasan, a tranquil Buddhist sanctuary where the hallowed temples murmur ancient tales and cultural rituals perform a delicate ballet. Immerse yourself in the optional live meditation experience, allowing the spirit to find peace, and join a monk-led tour that reveals the sacred secrets of this divine haven.

Expert driver pick-up & drop-off service, you can choose your location.

Professional tour guide shares you the culture, stories and tales.
Duration: 10 hours.

You will visit very unique, religious town with a knowledgeable licensed local guide. We will help you understand Koyasan as much as possible. We visit two most sacred areas in Koyasan. One is Garan-monastic complex and the other is Okunoin-the holy place for Kobo Daishi (the founder of Shingon Buddhism in Japan) belief. And we also visit Kongobuji temple, the head temple of Koyasan Shingon Buddhism. You will be able to learn about real Koyasan only a local guide knows. We walk about 3 km in Okunoin feeling the sacred atmosphere created by hundreds of thousands of gravestones standing on both sides of the pass flanked by tall centuries-old cedar trees.
Duration: 6 hours.

Koyasan is a deeply spiritual place that offers a unique opportunity to experience Japanese Buddhist culture and history. Its tranquil environment, rich heritage, and the chance to engage in religious practices make it a profound destination for both pilgrims and tourists seeking peace and enlightenment. Whether you're interested in exploring historic temples, participating in monastic life, or simply enjoying the serene natural beauty, Koyasan provides a deeply enriching experience.
Koyasan has a longer history than Kyoto and I believe you will feel the spiritually beaty of Jpan here. ( Actually, I got goosebumps）

This tour is led by a National Licensed Guide Interpreter.
This itinerary is just a sample. We'd be more than happy to arrange the tour based on your requests. Please let us know your interests!
Duration: 10 hours.

This is the ideal tour for travelers wanting to discover World Heritage Site, Mt. Koya. Go on a full-day guided private car tour of Mt. Koya and learn about the modern and traditional aspects of one of the world’s most sacred mountains!

If you are staying in Osaka but would like to take some time out to enjoy some sights outside the big city, then this tour of Mount Koya in Wakayama Prefecture is for you! Meet your guide at your hotel in Osaka, then head to Mount Koya.

Note*1: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.
Duration: 8 hours.

Our government-licensed and experienced multilingual guides will help you efficiently enjoy a one-day tour of UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site, Mt. Koya. Go on a full-day guided walking tour of Mt. Koya and learn about the modern and traditional aspects of one of the world’s most sacred mountains!

If you would like to take some time out to enjoy some sights outside the big city, then this tour of Mount Koya is for you! Meet your guide at Koyasan station, your private guide will customize your full-day tour in detail according to your interests.

Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary.
Note*2: National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.
Duration: 6 hours.

This tour takes you to the three most important places in Koyasan: Okunoin Cemetery, Kongobuji Temple, and Garan. This is also a private tour, so you can ask any questions you have. You will learn not only about temples and cemeteries but also about the lives of the monks, local life in Koyasan, history, and more.
Duration: 4 hours.

Mount Koya (高野山, Kōyasan) is the center of Shingon Buddhism, an important Buddhist sect which was introduced to Japan in 805 by Kobo Daishi (also known as Kukai), one of Japan's most significant religious figures.

・You can enjoy overnight at a Buddhist temple (Shukubo) at Mt. Koya (Koyasan) in this tour.
・Visit to Koyasan’s central temple complex with Private English Speaking Guide (Danjo Garan, Konpo Daito Pagoda, Okunoin Temple) 　
・Experience of Shojin Ryori (Japan's Sophisticated Buddhist Cuisine) for Lunch and Dinner at temple (Shukubo)
　※Lunch fee Not included.
・Guests are invited to participate in morning prayers which typically start around 6:00am (if you have made a reservation in advance)
・Including transportation's fee (Nankai Train Tickets) between Namba station (Osaka) and Mt. Koya

Duration: 2 days.

The Mount Koya is a famous pilgrinage place from the 9th century. This Buddhist complex was founded by the monk Kukai (aka Kobo Daishi) and welcomes you today for a unforgettable journey. This trip to Japanese History and Buddhism is waiting for you!
Duration: 8 hours.

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 in the What's to Expect part.

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.

We promise:
There are no hidden charges.
One-day private tour.
Clean cars and professional drivers
Duration: 10 hours.

Arriving or staying in Osaka but want to visit sacred Mt. Koya? This driving tour from Osaka to Mt. Koya is for you!

This private and customizable driving tour will allow you to take in the world’s most sacred mountains with out the worry of catching trains or busses. This driving tour is perfect for independent travelers that would like to take in the sites on their own. Allow your private chauffer to take you around in comfort and style. Once your tour is done, your chauffer will take you back to Osaka so that you can continue your travels across Japan.

If you are staying in Osaka but would like to take some time out to enjoy some sights outside the big city, then this tour of Mount Koya in Wakayama Prefecture is for you!

Note: This tour is for independent travelers that need private transportation only. This tour does not come with a guide and you will not be able to ask for recommendations from your driver or Japan Guide Agency
Duration: 8 hours.

Koyasan is a deeply spiritual place that offers a unique opportunity to experience Japanese Buddhist culture and history. Its tranquil environment, rich heritage, and the chance to engage in religious practices make it a profound destination for both pilgrims and tourists seeking peace and enlightenment. Whether you're interested in exploring historic temples, participating in monastic life, or simply enjoying the serene natural beauty, Koyasan provides a deeply enriching experience.
This tour is led by a National Licensed Guide Interpreter. The itinerary is just a sample. We'd be more than happy to arrange the tour based on your requests. Please let us know your interests!
Duration: 11 to 13 hours.

Mt. Koya is a World Heritage site deemed by UNESCO.
It is a place of scenic beauty where history, culture, and nature are concentrated.
The Highlight is to visit the World Heritage site of Mt Koya, a pilgrimage route. This is a day trip from Kyoto. Also experienced guide with a strong knowladge about Koyasan. This tour Includes round trip express bus.

Mount Koya is the center of Shingon Buddhism, an important Buddhist sect which was introduced to Japan in 805 by Kobo Daishi (also known as Kukai), one of Japan's most significant religious figures. A small, secluded temple town has developed around the sect's headquarters that Kobo Daishi built on Koyasan's wooded mountaintop. It is also the site of Kobo Daishi's mausoleum and the start and end point of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage.

※You will use Highway bus from Kyoto Station to Koyasan. ※No guide will accompany you on the highway bus. It takes about 3 hours one way.
Duration: 10 hours 30 minutes.

Koyasan is a deeply spiritual place that offers a unique opportunity to experience Japanese Buddhist culture and history. Its tranquil environment, rich heritage, and the chance to engage in religious practices make it a profound destination for both pilgrims and tourists seeking peace and enlightenment. Whether you're interested in exploring historic temples, participating in monastic life, or simply enjoying the serene natural beauty, Koyasan provides a deeply enriching experience.
Koyasan has a longer history than Kyoto and I believe you will feel the spiritually beaty of Jpan here. ( Actually, I got goosebumps）

This tour is led by a National Licensed Guide Interpreter.
This itinerary is just a sample. We'd be more than happy to arrange the tour based on your requests. Please let us know your interests!
This tour is great for any types of travelers , such as adventure seekers, families with children, etc.
Duration: 5 hours.

Mt Koya Autumn Leaves
Mt Koya is at its busiest in autumn throughout the year.
The normally tranquil sanctuary in the sky is transformed during the autumn foliage season, when the historic buildings and old townscapes are enveloped in a glamorous autumn scene of red and yellow leaves.
The best time to view the autumn leaves at Mt Koya is usually from late October to mid-November.
Why not visit Mt Koya to spend a special autumn time walking around the mountain in autumn colors and tasting vegetarian cuisine?

Orange picking
Wakayama, the fruit kingdom of Kishu, is Japan's leading producer of mandarin oranges. Orange picking is in full swing.
The sweetness and tartness are well balanced, and you can enjoy oranges straight from the tree! You can be sure of both freshness and taste.
This is a perfect experience for the fall holiday season that can be enjoyed by everyone from adults to children.

Duration: 11 hours.

This is 2-day tour allowing you to explore Mt. Koya's World Heritage Sites!
You will have the chance to visit the World Heritage site of Mt Koya, a pilgrimage route 2 Days trip from Kyoto　

Experienced guide with a strong knowledge of Koyasan.
Enjoy 1 night at Shukubo.
Duration: 2 days.

A tour package that will take you to go around in Wakayama, Japan. You will be take to very famous places in Wakayama such as Mt. Koya, Toretore Market and Nanki-Shirahama hot spring. Spend your time with family / friends in Wakayama!
------------

Itinerary:
------------
• 7:20 am ~ Dotonbori Kanidoraku west meet up
• 7:30 am ~ Departure on time
• 9:30 am ~ Koya-san Okunoin, considered the holiest location in Koyasan
• 1:00 pm ~ Toretore market, seafood + Nanki-Shirahama Onsen
• 3:10 pm ~ Senjojiki, Shirarahama Beach, Engetsu Island
• 5:00 pm ~ Arrive at Dotonbori Kani-Douraku west
Duration: 12 hours.