Mount Koya (Koyasan) Trips & Tours

A sacred Buddhist summit where serenity seems to linger in the air.

Mount Koya, or Koyasan, is a tranquil retreat steeped in history. This serene mountain is at the heart of Shingon Buddhism, which was introduced in 805 by Kobo Daishi, and their final resting place happens to be Mount Koya's Okunoin Cemetery. A walk along atmospheric forest paths, lined with thousands of ancient, moss-covered gravestones, leads to Kobo Daishi's mausoleum, a revered site of pilgrimage. Koyasan is strung with temples and monasteries, many of which welcome visitors to spend time with the monks, sharing meals, joining them for meditation and even participating in morning prayers. Kongobuji, the main temple of Shingon Buddhism, is known for its beautiful rock garden while the sacred Danjo Garan Complex is where Kobo Daishi's monastic community began. It includes the impressive Konpon Daito Pagoda, believed to be the central point of a mandala covering not just Koyasan but all of Japan.

Why you'll love it

Koyasan is a haven of spiritual respite and revelation, offering a rare opportunity to live alongside monks and learn about their way of life.

Off the beaten track

Koyasan is the starting point for the Shikoku Pilgrimage, which leads to 88 temples associated with Kobo Daishi. However, there are also several shorter walking trails around Mount Koya to explore.