Mt Koya Full Day Tour from Osaka with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
Koya, JP
100% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Explore the heart of Mt. Koya
- Visit the main headquarters for the Shingon Sect
- Discover the sacred sites of Koyasan Danjo Garan
- Experience the Reihokan Museum and its religious treasures
- Immerse yourself in the administrative center of Shingon Buddhism
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Duration 8 hours
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Private vehicle included
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Licensed English-speaking guide
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Customizable tour options
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Suitable for all fitness levels
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Mt. Koya on this full-day tour from Osaka. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this World Heritage Site as you explore its sacred mountains and learn from a licensed guide. Begin your journey from your hotel in Osaka and embark on a scenic drive to Mt. Koya. Marvel at the breathtaking landscapes along the way and get ready to be captivated by the modern and traditional aspects of one of the world's most sacred mountains. Visit the famous Tokugawa Mausoleum, a magnificent structure that took twenty years to complete and is adorned with intricate carvings, lacquer, and gold leaf. This customizable tour also includes private transportation, fuel, parking, highway fees, and a licensed English-speaking guide. Don't miss this opportunity to uncover the secrets of Mt. Koya and create memories that will last a lifetime.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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8 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Wheelchair accessible
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Mobile voucher
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Private Tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Explore the sacred Mt. Koya with a licensed guide on a customizable full-day tour from Osaka, immersing yourself in its rich cultural heritage.
Included
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Licensed Local English Speaking Guide -
Customizable Tour of your choice of 3-4 sites from 'What to expect' list'
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Private vehicle
Excluded
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You cannot combine multiple tour groups. -
Guide entry fees are only covered for sights listed under what to expect.
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Entrance fees, lunch, and other personal expenses
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
Koyasan Okunoin
Important Notice : The access to the Okunoin Torodo (Lantern Hall) will be suspended due to the restoration work from November 18th 2024 to End of August 2025. The heart of Mt. Koya. Kobo Daishi (Kukai), the founder of Shingon Buddhism and one of the most revered persons in the religious history of Japan, rests here. Also, many prominent personalities' graves line by the approach to Okunoin for several hundred meters through the forest. Your guide will explain interesting stories about those historical characters.
120 minutes
Kongobu-ji Temple
The main headquarters for the Shingon Sect, which has 4,000 temples throughout Japan and more than 10 million followers worldwide. Visitors can see religious artifact, fusuma sliding door paintings, as well as a beautiful rock garden representing two dragons flying amongst the clouds.
90 minutes
Koyasan Danjo Garan
One of the two most sacred sites in Mt. Koya. In the 9th century, Mt. Koya was founded on this very ground. At that time, Kobo Daishi held a groundbreaking ceremony and then dedicated his life to the construction of Danjo Garan. This sacred area consists of nearly twenty different structures including the magnificent Konpon Daito. Your guide will tell you the meaning of these structures.
90 minutes
Koyasan Reihokan Museum
The Reihokan Museum (霊宝館, Reihōkan) was built to house and preserve the religious and cultural treasures of Koyasan. The museum's entrance hall is styled after Byodoin Temple in Uji, and it has three exhibition halls for both permanent and temporary exhibitions. The museum's collection consists of thousands of religious works of art. The permanent exhibition displays statues, mandala (paintings representing metaphysical maps of the cosmos), and various other religious tools and paintings, the most notable of which is the scroll depicting the "Reclining Image of Sakyamuni Buddha on His Last Day". Additionally, a rotating temporary exhibition displays a seasonal selection chosen from the museum's collection.
60 minutes
Koyasan Daishi Kyokai
Daishi Kyokai (大師教会, Daishi Kyōkai) is the administrative center of Shingon Buddhism, and is responsible for spreading the teachings of Kobo Daishi, the sect's founder. The complex consists of two buildings: Henjoden, a traditional temple hall, that was built in 1915 and is dedicated to Kobo Daishi, and a modern building for administration, lectures and training. Visitors can participate in a few activities at Daishi Kyokai, such as receiving Buddhist precepts (jukai) or copying Buddhist scriptures (shakyo). No advance reservations are required.
60 minutes
Tokugawa's Mausoleum
The Tokugawa Mausoleum (徳川家霊台, Tokugawa-ke Reidai) on Koyasan was built in 1643 by the third Tokugawa shogun Iemitsu in order for his family to have a mausoleum close to Kobo Daishi's mausoleum. It consists of two buildings which enshrine Iemitsu's grandfather Ieyasu and father Hidetada, the first two Tokugawa shogun. The mausoleum's two identical buildings took twenty years to be completed and were built in the extravagant style of the early Edo Period with graceful sloping roofs, rich ornamentation, intricate carvings, lacquer and gold leaf. The two buildings stand side by side. The one on the right enshrines Ieyasu and the one on the left Hidetada.
60 minutes
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller -
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
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Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
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Service animals allowed
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Specialized infant seats are available
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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There are only a limited number of car seats and booster seats. Rear-facing car seats are not available. You must contact us directly if you need them.
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Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
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Wheelchair accessible
What our experts say
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Try local Koya-san cuisine for lunch. -
Dress in layers; it can be chilly.
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Visit the Koyasan Reihokan Museum.
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Check Okunoin access before visiting.
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Consider a night stay for deeper experience.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Discover the magical and spiritual wonders of Mount Koya on this captivating full-day tour. This tour takes you away from the bustling city of Osaka and into the tranquil beauty of one of Japan's most sacred mountains. With a knowledgeable and licensed guide by your side, you will gain insight into the rich history and cultural significance of this World Heritage Site.
What to expect?
Embark on an immersive journey as you explore the various attractions of Mount Koya. Visit the heart of the mountain, Koyasan Okunoin, where the revered founder of Shingon Buddhism, Kobo Daishi, lies in rest. Walk through the enchanting forest, marveling at the graves of historical figures that line the approach to Okunoin.
Continue your exploration at Kongobu-ji Temple, the main headquarters of the Shingon Sect, and be amazed by the religious artifacts and the serene rock garden. Then, visit Koyasan Danjo Garan, one of the most sacred sites on the mountain. Your guide will share the profound meaning behind the numerous structures, including the magnificent Konpon Daito.
Complete your adventure by visiting The Reihokan Museum, which houses an impressive collection of religious and cultural treasures. Finally, immerse yourself in the administrative center of Shingon Buddhism at Daishi Kyokai. Participate in meaningful activities such as receiving Buddhist precepts or copying Buddhist scriptures.
Who is this for?
This enriching tour is perfect for travelers who seek a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and history. It is suitable for anyone with an interest in spirituality, sacred sites, and the beauty of nature. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a religious pilgrim, or simply a curious traveler, this tour will provide a unique and enlightening experience.
Why book this?
Unlock the secrets of Mount Koya with a licensed guide who will passionately share captivating stories and insights about the mountain's significance. This tour offers a private car, ensuring a comfortable and convenient journey. By immersing yourself in the serene atmosphere of Mount Koya, you will find peace and tranquility away from the busy city.
Good to know
It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes as there will be some walking involved during the tour. Keep in mind that Mount Koya is a sacred place, so be respectful of the religious customs and practices. The tour includes visits to several historical sites, providing a unique opportunity to witness the richness of Japanese history and culture.
Reviews
Travelers who have embarked on this tour have expressed their awe and satisfaction with the experience. They were captivated by the beauty of Mount Koya and the profound sense of spirituality it offered. Many praised the knowledgeable and friendly guides, as well as the convenience of having a private car. This tour truly left a lasting impression, providing a deeper understanding and appreciation of Japan's cultural heritage.
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