Koyasan sits at an elevation of about 800 meters, forming a unique Buddhist town high in the mountains. Visitors quickly notice the peaceful environment: centuries-old cedar trees, quiet temple grounds, and crisp mountain air.

The Nankai Group has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions as part of its Environmental Vision 2030 initiative.
The newly introduced electric buses produce zero CO₂ emissions while operating and generate far less noise and vibration than traditional vehicles.
At a place like Koyasan, where the atmosphere of quiet reflection is essential, reducing engine noise helps preserve the calm environment for both visitors and nature.

One of Koyasan’s most distinctive qualities is its tranquility. With electric buses, the journey itself becomes more peaceful. Traveling toward sites such as Okunoin, visitors can appreciate the sounds of wind through the cedar trees or birds in the forest while moving quietly through the landscape.

On April 24, 2026, Nankai Electric Railway will begin operating its new sightseeing train GRAN TENKU. To create a seamless travel experience, the electric buses operating within Koyasan will feature the same design concept.

The exterior design uses deep green tones inspired by the forests surrounding Koyasan, paired with elegant colors that reflect the solemn atmosphere of its historic temples. Inside, the buses echo the same design philosophy as the train: a calm interior space combined with thoughtful hospitality for passengers.

Traditionally, buses were simply a way to reach your destination. These new vehicles aim to make the ride itself part of the experience. Large windows offer panoramic views of Koyasan’s seasonal scenery, from lush summer forests to snow-covered temple grounds in winter.

For first-time visitors, understanding Koyasan’s history helps explain why it remains such a special place.

Koyasan was established in the early Heian period by the Buddhist monk Kukai, also known as Kobo Daishi. It remains the headquarters of Shingon Buddhism, and today 117 temples are spread throughout the mountain basin, forming one of Japan’s most important religious centers.

Many temples in Koyasan offer overnight stays known as shukubo (temple lodging). Guests can enjoy shojin ryori, traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, and participate in early-morning gongyo prayers. These experiences allow visitors to slow down, reflect, and experience daily life within a working temple community.

When visiting Koyasan, it’s well worth exploring nearby destinations in Wakayama as well.

Located at the foot of Koyasan, the town of Kudoyama is known as the place where the famous samurai Sanada Yukimura lived in exile during the Sengoku period. The town is also famous for its high-quality persimmons, making it a pleasant stop for local food and history.

This is the temple where Kukai's mother is said to have stayed during the time when Mount Koya was closed to women. Many women visit to pray for children, safe childbirth, and recovery from breast cancer.

Koyasan has long welcomed visitors from around the world, and the travel infrastructure is designed to be easy for international guests.

English signage is widely available at major sites and bus stops throughout Koyasan. Tourist information centers also provide multilingual maps. The new electric buses will include multilingual passenger information displays, helping visitors navigate the area easily.


Service Start Date
April 24, 2026 (planned)

Operating Area
Routes managed by the Nankai Rinkan Bus Koyasan Office

Routes
Koyasan Inner Line and Uguisudani Line. (The Uguisudani Line is scheduled to merge with the Inner Line on March 28, 2026.)

Payment Methods
Cashless payment available, including transportation IC cards.

Koyasan’s long history reflects a balance between preserving tradition while adapting to change. The introduction of electric buses alongside the new GRAN TENKU sightseeing train represents a modern form of hospitality for visitors.
Traveling quietly through the mountain on an emission-free bus helps protect the natural environment that Kukai cherished, ensuring that the spiritual landscape of Koyasan can be experienced by future generations.

Source/Main Image:南海りんかんバス株式会社
Photo Credit: Wakayama Tourism Federation