Mount Koya Retreat

This overnight tour from Kyoto or Osaka offers an exceptional and unique experience of Buddhism in Japan and includes an overnight stay in Temple lodgings at Mount Koya.

Home to over 100 temples, Mt. Koya has been the centre of Buddhism Shingon, an important Buddhist sect, for over 1,200 years.

The 2.5 hour journey to the mountaintop religious centre of Mount Koya is one of the highlights of the visit.

You will take several local trains, with the last train being one of the most scenic in Japan, winding its way up through the mountains.

Your bed for the night will be in Buddhist Monastery lodgings - simple accommodation in keeping with the location.

All of our Japan Holidays can be tailored to suit your interests, time and budget so just let us know your preferences.

Day 1: Kyoto - Mount Koya

Home to over 100 temples, Mt. Koya has been the centre of Buddhism Shingon, an important Buddhist sect, for over 1200 years.

The 2.5 hour journey to the mountaintop religious center of Mount Koya (Mt. Koya) is one of the highlights of the visit.

You will take several local trains, with the last train being one of the most scenic in Japan, winding its way up through the mountains. The train journey is unaccompanied from Kyoto or Osaka.

After disembarking, take a short cable car up to the top of the 900m Mt. Koya.

Your expert guide will meet you at Mt.Koya station and show you around Mt. Koya’s sights, as well as giving you an insight into Japanese Buddhism.

Visit Kongobunji Temple, the head monastery of Shingon Buddhism, and home to Japan’s largest rock garden, as well as the Garan temple complex.

Okunoin is Japan’s largest cemetery and holds the mausoleum of the founder of Shingon Buddhism, Kobo Daishi.

The 2km walk to the mausoleum takes you past 200,000 tombstones, belonging to feudal lords, prominent monks and well known Japanese companies.