Koyasan: My Stay at a Buddhist Temple in Japan

On day 11 of my 20-day Japan adventure, I traded the cityscapes for the tranquillity of Koyasan (Mount Koya). Exploring Koyasan was one of the most exciting experiences of my trip to Japan, offering me the opportunity to stay overnight in a Buddhist temple (shukubo). This unique experience provided an unforgettable glimpse into Japan’s spiritual traditions.

This post walks you through my journey—complete with my route, highlights, and reflections on what made Koyasan such a powerful and transformative destination.

This part of my journey came right after I visited Kyoto. If you haven’t already, I recommend checking out my post, The Best of Kyoto in 3 Days, to explore one of Japan’s most iconic cities. 

Additionally, it’s a good idea to read my post on Temple Etiquette in Japan: What to Know Before You Visit. It covers the respectful behaviours every traveller should know when visiting temples or shrines.

If you’re new to Buddhism, you may also find my article, Japanese Buddhism Made Simple, helpful in understanding the spiritual traditions that shape the country.

For more practical travel tips, don’t miss my Japan Tourist Information guide, which includes essential details about currency, transportation, culture, the best time to visit, and more. It’s your one-stop resource for navigating Japan like a pro!

Here is the list of everything you will find in this article:

A. Koyasan – MAP

Here’s a map of all the places I visited in Koyasan, marked in the order I explored them:

Located in the mountains of Wakayama Prefecture, Mount Koya (高野山, Koyasan) is steeped in Buddhist history, as it was the final resting place of Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism. Known for its serene atmosphere and spiritual significance, Koyasan is a place where time seems to stand still, inviting reflection and a connection with the past.

B. Koyasan – ROUTE

Getting to Koyasan wasn’t easy, but that’s part of its charm. Hidden deep in the mountains, the journey there felt like a pilgrimage in itself.

I visited at the end of March, just before the start of April, when the direct bus from Kyoto to Koyasan would begin operating for the season (the bus doesn’t run in winter).

As part of my 20-day Japan adventure, I was only staying in Koyasan for a night, and I didn’t want to lug around my heavy suitcase for such a short stay. So, I left it in one of the lockers at Osaka Station (a lifesaver) and travelled with just a light backpack.

My journey began early in the morning with the bullet train from Kyoto to Osaka Station (luckily covered by my JR Pass), before hopping onto the underground to Shin-Imamiya Station.

From there, I boarded the Nankai Limited Express, which took me to Gokurakubashi. Then came the real adventure: the cable car to Koyasan Station, followed by a bus to my final destination.

It was a nearly 3-hour trek in total, but the moment I arrived, the tranquil beauty of Koyasan made every minute of the journey thoroughly worthwhile.

After arriving in the small town, I spent my day wandering through its famous temples and cemeteries, before settling into my temple stay for a night of meditation, reflection, and quiet contemplation.

Koyasan: Japan’s Sacred Mountain

Koyasan is not a typical tourist destination. This sacred mountain town is a place where ancient rituals, tranquil forests, and holy sites come together to create an atmosphere of peace and introspection. 

Founded in 816 AD by the revered monk Kūkai (Kōbō Daishi), Koyasan is the heart of Shingon Buddhism—a mystical branch of Buddhism brought from China. It’s been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004.

Surrounded by towering cedars and cloaked in spiritual tranquillity, Koyasan is home to over 117 temples, with 51 offering lodging in shukubō—temple stays. I chose to stay at Fudoin, a serene temple with imperial lineage.

Highlights of My Visit

1. Daimon Gate

Daimon Gate (大門) is a 25-metre-tall vermilion gate that marks the entrance to sacred Koyasan. Initially built in the 11th century and rebuilt in 1705, it’s guarded by fierce Nio statues representing protective deities: Un-Gyo and A-Gyo.

 📍 Admission: Free

2. Danjō Garan

Danjō Garan (壇上伽藍) is the spiritual core of Koyasan—a sprawling complex of halls, pagodas, and sacred trees.

✴️ Must-see spots include:

• Kondo Hall – A grand wooden temple used for ceremonies, housing Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddha of healing.

• Konpon Daitō Pagoda – A vivid red 45-metre pagoda symbolising the centre of the universe. Inside stands a giant Buddha.

• Kōbō Daishi’s Cedar – According to legend, Kukai’s vajra landed here, marking the divine spot for founding Koyasan.

• Saitō, also known as the Western Stupa, is an impressive structure that Kōbō Daishi (Kūkai) constructed as part of a mandala design representing the cosmic Buddha’s world. This two-story tahōtō has a square base and a round top, symbolising the Western Paradise of Amida Buddha. Along with the Kondō (Main Hall) and the Konpon Daitō (Great Pagoda), the Saitō helps create a balanced spiritual vibe.

• Hasuike (Lotus Pond) – A tranquil pond with a miniature island temple.

🕣 Open: 08:30–17:00 | Admission: ¥500 (grounds are free)

💡 Tip: Grab a combination ticket to check out several sites, including a jukai service at Daishi Kyokai, where you can officially accept the Buddhist precepts. It’s right in front of the Reihokan museum, and you don’t need to make any reservations.

3. Reihōkan Museum

If you are interested in history, art, or Buddhist culture, the Reihōkan Museum (霊宝館) is worth a visit. A treasure trove of Buddhist art, it houses 21 National Treasures, including intricate statues, mandalas, and scriptures.

 🕣 Open: 08:30–17:00 | Admission: ¥600

4. Kongōbu-ji Temple

Kongōbu-ji Temple (金剛峯寺), which means “Diamond Peak Temple”, is the head temple of Shingon Buddhism.

It is also Japan’s most extensive rock garden, which has 140 rocks that symbolise two dragons flying through clouds.

 🕣 Open daily 08:30–17:00 | Admission: ¥1000

5. Tokugawa Mausoleum (Tokugawa-ke Reidai)

Tokugawa Mausoleum (徳川家廟) was built in 1643 by Shogun Iemitsu, the third shogun, for the first two shoguns, Ieyasu and Hidetada.

The site features two identical buildings adorned with intricate carvings, lacquerwork, and gold leaf, which took 20 years to complete. Ieyasu is enshrined on the right and Hidetada on the left.

🕣 Open: 08:30–17:00 | Admission: ¥200

🍜🥢After exploring the sights, I took a break for lunch before checking in at the Shukubu Fudoin.

Then, after a quick refresh, I headed to my final visit of the day: Okunoin Cemetery, one of the two must-see places in the area.

6. Okunoin Cemetery

Okunoin Cemetery (奥之院) is Japan’s largest and most sacred cemetery. A mystical 2-kilometre path winds through ancient cedar trees and features over 200,000 gravestones. However, it’s not just a graveyard, but a living pilgrimage site pulsing with devotion, history, and quiet mystery.

The path concludes at Kūkai’s mausoleum, where it is believed that Kūkai is in eternal meditation, offering salvation to all beings.

Route:

1. Ichinohashi Bridge marks the entrance to the cemetery.

2. From Ichinohashi Bridge to Gobyōbashi Bridge [30-45 min], there is a 2 km path through Japan’s largest cemetery, featuring over 200,000 gravestones and moss-covered lanterns. It includes historic samurai graves, feudal lord tombs, and memorials to famous figures.

3. Gobyōbashi Bridge [5 min]. It’s the final sacred bridge leading to Kōbō Daishi’s Mausoleum (Remove your hat and bow before crossing).

4. Kōbō Daishi’s Mausoleum [15-30 min]. The most sacred site in Kōyasan, where Kōbō Daishi (founder of Shingon Buddhism) is believed to be in eternal meditation. Inside the Toro-dō (Hall of Lanterns), thousands of lanterns donated by the faithful glow 24/7 in eternal tribute.

🕣 Open: 08:30–17:00 | Admission: Free

After such a wonderful experience, I went back to the temple (Fudoin) to enjoy dinner and relax in the facilities.

Shukubo Fudoin

Fudoin (宿坊 不動院) has deep roots with Japan’s Imperial family, and you can really feel the history when you walk around. The temple grounds even include the mausoleum of Bifukumonin, the wife of the monk-emperor Toba. These days, Fudoin is also one of the most popular shukubō in Koyasan, so it’s a great spot to stay if you want a mix of history, calm, and classic temple vibes.

🤫💹 I have to admit that I broke my own budget rules for this one—but come on, how often do you get to sleep in a centuries-old temple in the mountains of Japan?

The room’s name was 金松 (Kanematsu), which combines two kanji characters:

• 金 (kane), meaning “gold”
• 松 (matsu), meaning “pine tree”

Together, they signify “Golden Pine.” In Japanese culture, pine trees symbolise longevity and good fortune, and are often associated with New Year celebrations. The character for gold suggests prosperity.

Here is a short video of the room 🤩

Dinner at the Buddhist Temple

When dinner was ready, one of the monks came to the room and escorted us to the dining area.

It was a beautifully presented shōjin ryōri (Buddhist vegetarian meal), prepared with seasonal ingredients. I must say, it was delicious!

After dinner, there was free time to explore the garden, unwind in the rest area, or read in the small temple library.

Bedtime was at 21:00. The temple gates closed, and no one was allowed in or out after this time.

Morning Religious Service

I woke up early to attend the morning religious service at 07:00. There’s just something about waking up at dawn in a temple that feels very peaceful and calming.

The service lasted for 50 minutes and included the following steps:

1. Sutra Chanting – We chanted ancient texts, such as the Hannya Shingyo, creating a deep and calming atmosphere in the hall. It’s their way of showing gratitude to the Buddha for keeping visitors safe and honouring the souls of those who have passed away. These chants help clear the mind and act as prayers to the Buddha.

2. Shoko (Burning Incense) – A moment of mindfulness. It is a ceremony where you burn incense to fill the air with its lovely scent, helping to clear your mind and body. Here’s how to do it:
   1. Stand in front of the incense burner and give a little bow.
   2. If you wish, place a donation in the box while thinking of a heartfelt wish.
   3. Hold the incense with your right hand and touch it to your forehead.
   4. Place the incense on the charcoal in the censer.
   5. Finally, bring your hands together in Gassho.

3. Ajikan Meditation – A brief introduction to Shingon meditation, introduced by Kobo Daishi. This practice emphasises breath, presence, and connection, activating the parasympathetic nervous system to promote relaxation and a calming effect.

📝 Tips:

• Dress nicely—no yukata or pyjamas.
• You can take photos after the service, but refrain from using flash and try to keep the noise level down.

Breakfast at the Buddhist Temple

Finalised the service at around 07:50, it was time for breakfast—another exquisite vegetarian meal—simple, nourishing, and thoughtfully prepared.

Leaving Koyasan

Sadly, it was time to leave this wonderful place to continue my 🌸20-day adventure around Japan. The next stop will be Osaka.

Though the journey back to modern Japan was smooth, a part of me stayed behind—lingering among the temples and cedar trees of Koyasan 🫠💭🌲

Final Thoughts

Koyasan is not just a destination; it is a retreat into silence, a journey back in time, and a powerful reminder of the beauty in stillness. If you’re travelling through Japan and looking for a spiritual experience beyond the usual tourist path, a temple stay in Koyasan is something you’ll never forget. 

If you’re interested in Buddhism, as I am, this experience should be on your list. It offers rare insight into a way of life rooted in mindfulness, simplicity, and quiet reflection.

Also, if you want to learn a bit more about Japanese Buddhism, don’t miss my post Japanese Buddhism Made Simple. It will help you to understand the basics.

I hope you liked this post about Koyasan and my temple stay 😊

Don’t miss the next part of this fantastic trip: Sumo in Osaka, Tastes of Kobe & Highlights from Himeji & Okayama. 

👉 Or, go back to Japan’s full itinerary: 🌸Japan: 20-Day Itinerary with Cherry Blossoms & Top Cities.

C. Ready to Book your Trip?

To help you organise your adventure, I’ve gathered the best tools I use and recommend for booking flights, hotels, local transport and more. These links support this site at no extra cost to you.

Safe travels! 🌏✈️

D. More About Japan

Planning a trip to Japan? Here are some of my top posts to help you make the most of your journey – from detailed itineraries and cultural insights to city guides and unique experiences across the country.

⭐ Itineraries & City Guides

🗾🌸 Japan in 20 Days: Cherry Blossom Itinerary & Top Cities. Plan the perfect spring getaway with this 20-day itinerary covering Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, cherry blossoms, and essential travel tips.

🗼 Tokyo 4-Day Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See. Explore Tokyo’s must-visit attractions, neighbourhoods, street food, and cultural highlights in just four unforgettable days.

🚉 Kamakura & Yokohama: Day Trip from Tokyo. A perfect day trip from Tokyo to explore Kamakura’s temples and Yokohama’s scenic bayside – history, food, and coastal charm.

🏯 Odawara, Hakone, Fujiyoshida & Nagoya: Castles, Fuji, and Onsen. Visit historic castles, soak in hot springs, and admire iconic views of Mount Fuji on this scenic multi-stop adventure.

⛩️ The Best of Kyoto in 3 Days. Discover Kyoto’s top temples, gardens, and cultural sites in just three days – includes a downloadable map to guide you.

🍜 Sumo in Osaka, Tastes of Kobe & Highlights from Himeji & Okayama. Catch a sumo match, try Kobe beef, and explore some of Japan’s best castles in this fast-paced guide to western Japan.

📍 Hiroshima & Miyajima: Top Attractions. A must-read for first-timers – explore Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park and the stunning Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island.

🏝️ Okinawa: What to See & Do. Planning a beach escape? Discover what to see, do, and know before visiting Okinawa, Japan’s tropical paradise.

⭐ Culture, Religion & Traditions

🙏 Temple Etiquette in Japan: What to Know Before You Visit. Visiting temples and shrines? Learn the dos and don’ts of temple etiquette to show respect during your spiritual visits.

☸️ Japanese Buddhism Made Simple. New to Buddhism? This beginner-friendly guide breaks down key beliefs and traditions in Japanese Buddhist culture.

🍀 Guide to Japanese Lucky Charms & Amulets. Curious about omamori, daruma, or maneki neko? Learn the meanings and traditions behind Japan’s most iconic charms.

⭐ Travel Tips & Cultural Insights

📌 Japan Tourist Information: What You Need to Know. Practical info every traveller should know – transport, money, customs, etiquette, and more to prepare you for your trip.

🚇 Practical Tokyo Guide for First-Time Visitors. Navigate Tokyo like a pro with this beginner-friendly guide to public transport, safety tips, and local etiquette.

📖 Kyoto Travel Guide: What to Know Before You Go. Everything you need for a smooth trip to Kyoto – from the best seasons to visit, how to get around, and local customs.

🌆 Osaka Travel Guide: What to Know Before You Go. When to go, how to get around, what to eat, and more – your go-to guide for Japan’s most vibrant foodie city.

Additional Information

You can also check my itineraries in Itineraries. Here, you’ll find them classified in City Guides and Country Guides.

Remember to check Cook up Your Trip. There, you will find everything you need to organise your trip from start to finish.

If you require any clarification, please feel free to leave a comment or complete the contact form. I will be happy to help you. 😊

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