Koyasan - Discovering Japan

Travelling to Koyasan

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Koyasan, a pretty good destination in Japan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Koyasan and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Koyasan, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Japan, here's everything to know about Koyasan for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Koyasan

Koyasan is a mountain top town located in the Wakayama Prefecture of Japan. It is known for being the center of Shingon Buddhism and is considered one of the most sacred places in Japan. Visitors can explore various temples and shrines, hike through the surrounding forests, and experience traditional Japanese culture. The town is most famous for its tranquil atmosphere and unique cemetery, which is home to thousands of gravestones and ancient tombs. Koyasan is also a popular place for overnight stays in traditional Japanese inns called ryokans.

What to visit in Koyasan

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Koyasan along with some information about each: 1. Mount Koya: This sacred mountain is the reason Koyasan exists, as it became the center of Shingon Buddhism in Japan when the monk Kukai (also known as Kobo Daishi) founded a monastery here in the 9th century. Visitors can hike around the forested mountain and visit some of the many temples and shrines that have been built here over the centuries.
2. Okunoin Cemetery: Located at the base of Mount Koya, Okunoin Cemetery is a massive, dense forest of tombstones and memorials dedicated to over 200,000 Buddhist monks and historical figures. It's a sacred and peaceful place that's especially beautiful in autumn.
3. Kongobuji Temple: This is the main temple of the Shingon sect of Buddhism, and it has a beautiful traditional Japanese garden called Banryutei inside that's definitely worth seeing. Visitors can also check out the temple's paintings, ceremonial rooms, and other structures.
4. Danjo Garan: This is a temple complex that contains a number of important buildings, including the Konpon Daito pagoda (one of Japan's tallest), the Kondo Hall (which houses a famous statue of Kukai), and the Miedo Hall (which contains a famous relief of Kukai's face). There are also some nice gardens and ponds to explore on the grounds.
5. Daimon Gate: The entrance to Koyasan is marked by this huge red gate, which was built in the 14th century. It's a popular spot for taking photos and getting a sense of the history and culture of the area.
6. Koyasan Reihokan Museum: This museum contains many of the treasures of Koyasan's temples and shrines, including paintings, statues, and ancient manuscripts. It's a good place to learn more about the local history and see some beautiful art.
Overall, Koyasan is a fascinating and deeply spiritual place to visit, full of history and natural beauty.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Japan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Koyasan

The best time to visit Koyasan is from March to May or from September to November when the weather is mild and pleasant. During these months you can enjoy the beautiful autumn foliage or the blooming of the cherry blossoms in spring. The summer months (June to August) can be quite hot and humid, while the winter months (December to February) can be quite cold and snowy. Keep in mind that Koyasan is a mountainous area and weather conditions can change quickly, so always check the weather forecast before traveling.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Koyasan

To get to Koyasan in Japan, you can take the following steps: 1. Take a train from Osaka to Hashimoto Station. The train ride takes about 40 minutes and costs around 610 yen.
2. From Hashimoto Station, transfer to another train on the Koya Line to Gokurakubashi Station. The train ride takes about 80 minutes and costs around 1,300 yen.
3. At Gokurakubashi Station, take a cable car to Koyasan Station. The cable car ride takes about 5 minutes and costs around 390 yen.
4. From Koyasan Station, take a bus or a taxi to your accommodation or other destinations within Koyasan.
Please note that the train and cable car schedules may change depending on the season and weather conditions, so it's best to double-check before your trip. Also, if you plan to use public transportation frequently in Japan, consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass or a Kansai Area Pass as they can save you money on train travel.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Koyasan, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Koyasan

Koyasan (also known as Mount Koya) is a sacred mountain in Japan that is home to more than 100 Buddhist temples and monasteries. Here are some typical foods you might encounter on a trip there: 1. Shojin Ryori: Shojin Ryori is a traditional vegetarian cuisine in Japan that originated in Buddhist monasteries. The dishes are prepared using simple ingredients such as tofu, vegetables, seaweed, miso soup, and rice. This cuisine is prevalent in Koyasan as it is home to many Buddhist monasteries.
2. Shabu-shabu: This is a Japanese hotpot dish that consists of thinly sliced meat (usually beef) and vegetables cooked in a boiling pot of water or broth. The term "shabu-shabu" comes from the sound of the ingredients being swished around in the pot.
3. Udon: Udon is a type of thick and chewy noodles that are commonly served in soups and broths. In Koyasan, you might find udon dishes served with various toppings such as tempura, vegetables, and tofu.
4. Omurice: Omurice is a popular Japanese dish that consists of fried rice wrapped in a thin omelet. It is often topped with a sweet tomato sauce.
5. Unagi: Unagi is a type of freshwater eel that is grilled and served with rice. It is often seasoned with a sweet and savory sauce.
6. Soba: Soba is a type of thin noodles made from buckwheat flour. It is commonly served in soups or chilled with dipping sauce.
You can find general info about typical foods in Japan here.

Is Koyasan an expensive destination for tourists?

Koyasan in Japan can be considered a slightly more expensive destination for tourists compared to some other destinations in the country. However, the price may vary depending on the season you visit and your accommodation preferences. Prices of accommodations, food, and transportation are typically higher than in other popular tourist destinations in Japan. However, the experience of staying in a traditional temple lodging and exploring Koyasan's stunning temples and nature can be considered well worth the cost for many visitors.

Where to find accomodation in Koyasan

The best areas to find accommodation when visiting Koyasan, Japan are the areas near the main temple complexes, such as Okunoin and Danjo Garan. Other recommended areas include the town center, located just a few minutes' walk from the temple complexes, and the foothills of the surrounding mountains, which offer a picturesque setting for a unique lodging experience. It's worth noting that many visitors opt to stay at a temple lodging (shukubo) to fully immerse themselves in the spiritual atmosphere of Koyasan.
You can check hotel prices at Koyasan here:
Booking.com

Is Koyasan a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Koyasan in Japan is generally a very safe place for tourists. The crime rate here is relatively low, and the local people are known for being very friendly and kind to visitors. However, like any other tourist destination, it is always important to be mindful of your surroundings, take care of your valuables, and follow basic safety guidelines when exploring a new place. It is also recommended to always carry your identification with you, stay in well-lit areas at night, and avoid walking alone in deserted areas.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Japan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Koyasan.

What type of travelers will enjoy Koyasan the most?

Koyasan is a spiritual and cultural destination that is ideal for those seeking a serene and tranquil atmosphere. It is a popular destination for couples, families, and solo travelers looking to explore Japan's spiritual and cultural heritage. Young people looking for nightlife or adventure activities may find Koyasan less appealing.
Koyasan offers numerous temples and shrines with stunning architecture and beautiful gardens, as well as opportunities for meditation, yoga, and hiking. Traditional Japanese cuisine, including vegetarian cuisine, is also a highlight of Koyasan.
Overall, Koyasan is ideal for those looking to enjoy a peaceful, reflective, and culturally rich experience in Japan.

How to get around Koyasan

In Koyasan, the most common form of transportation is walking as the town is small and best explored on foot. However, there is also a bus system that runs through the area and can be convenient for those traveling with luggage or wishing to visit sites on the outskirts of town. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive. Many visitors also enjoy the experience of staying in a traditional Japanese inn and exploring the town via a bicycle rental service.

What to see around Koyasan

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Koyasan: 1. Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine: This is a beautiful Shinto shrine located in the Kii Mountains. It is considered one of the three most important shrines in Kumano.
2. Yoshino-ji Temple: This temple is famous for its stunning autumn colors and is located in the nearby town of Yoshino.
3. Mount Koya Ropeway: This is a cable car that takes you up to the top of Mount Koya where you can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding area.
4. Wakayama Castle: This is a beautiful castle that is located in the city of Wakayama, which is a short train ride from Koyasan.
5. Nachi Falls: This is a beautiful waterfall located in the Nachi-Katsuura area. The waterfall is considered one of the most beautiful in Japan and is definitely worth a visit. I hope this helps!
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