Nestled amidst the lush forests of the Kii Mountains in Wakayama Prefecture, Koyasan (Mount Koya) stands as a symbol of spiritual enlightenment and cultural richness.
On my second trip to Japan I wanted to explore a few new areas in combination with some places that I was dying to revisit. One of these new spots was Koyasan.
A good friend of mine had visited and fallen in love with the place so I was intrigued. Her descriptions of sleeping in a Buddhist temple and wandering through a secluded ancient landscape had captivated my imagination. I vowed that if I ever returned to Japan, this town would be high on my list of places to explore.
Well, the stars aligned and a trip to Japan was on the horizon again. I hadn’t forgotten what my friend told me so I factored Koyasan into a new itinerary. I had a good feeling about this place, so I booked three nights in temple lodging (Shukubo) and counted down the days until my trip.
Well, my friend was right, not that I ever doubted her, of course. Koyasan is without doubt one of the most magical places in Japan, and my trip to Okunoin Cemetery sticks out as being one of the most unique places I’ve ever seen.
With its ancient temples, serene atmosphere, and natural beauty, Mount Koya offers a unique and enriching travel experience that transcends the ordinary.
Here’s your comprehensive guide to exploring this sacred mountain: