MODEL COURSE
Discover recommended sightseeing spots in Koyasan, perfect for visitors arriving by GRAN TENKU.
START
Take the bus from “Koyasan Station” and get off at “Okunoin-mae.” Your destination is just a short walk away.
*If you prefer to walk from the Ichinohashi approach, get off at “Okunoin-guchi.” Your destination is just a short walk away.
*Photo: Mausoleum of Kobo Daishi
Okunoin approach
The sacred heart of Koyasan's spiritual world, this important site of devotion to Kobo Daishi is one of the focal points of Koyasan. Ancient cedar trees line the approach alongside the tomb markers of celebrated warlords. Walk through the spiritually charged, crisp air and make your way to the mausoleum where Kobo Daishi Kukai is said to have entered eternal meditation. An essential destination for any visitor to Koyasan.
Take the bus from “Okunoin-mae” and get off at “Tamagawa-dori.” Your destination is just a short walk away. Alternatively, walk from the Ichinohashi approach (about 4 minutes).
Tempu Terrace
Relax and unwind in this multi-purpose facility combining a comfortable cafe, a boutique stocking local products, and an experiential space where visitors can discover the charms of Wakayama through hands-on activities such as incense making. Enjoy a vibrant, colorful vegetarian plate of fresh vegetables and budo sansho pepper from the foot of Koyasan, traditional seasonings such as rice miso and plum vinegar, and wholesome vegetarian dishes made with chickpeas and sesame paste.
Take the bus from “Tamagawa-dori” and get off at “Kongobuji-mae.” Walk for two minutes.
Kongobuji Temple
The magnificent head temple of the Koyasan Shingon sect, set amid expansive, beautiful grounds. Here, visitors can view an array of historic structures, including the Banryutei, one of the largest stone gardens in Japan, rooms adorned with splendid fusuma paintings by artists who left their mark on history, and the chamber where Hidetsugu met his end by the sword. At the Ajikan Dojo, even beginners can enjoy meditation.
*Ajikan meditation sessions are held on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays from April to November. For details, please check the schedule on the official website. Please note that sessions may be canceled or rescheduled due to events and other activities at Kongobuji Temple.Walk (about 5 minutes)
Danjo Garan Monastic Complex
The sacred birthplace of Koyasan, one of its two holiest sites alongside Okunoin. This is where Kobo Daishi Kukai first began building a temple complex on the mountain, and the Konpon Daito, the iconic symbol of Koyasan, draws the eye. Among the area's many highlights: Miedo, constructed as Kobo Daishi's personal devotional hall; the Kondo, the central hall of the entire mountain; the national treasure of Fudo-do; the Chumon Gate, rebuilt for the first time in 172 years to mark the 1,200th anniversary of Koyasan's founding; and the storied Sanko no Matsu pine tree.
Walk (about 5 minutes)
Koyasan Reihokan Museum
With a wealth of national treasures and important cultural properties, Koyasan is truly a treasure chest on the mountaintop and a sanctuary of religious art. The Koyasan Reihokan Museum was built in 1921 to safeguard these precious cultural assets and share them with the general public. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum also holds special exhibitions throughout the year.
Take the bus from “Reihokan-mae” and get off at “Koyasan Station.” Your destination is just a short walk away.
GOAL
Koyasan Station
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