Best around Wakayama, Koyasan Spot List

Adventure islands

Koyasan, a treasury of esoteric Buddhism art

The leading domestic collection of modern art prints

A spiritual area surrounding Kobo Daishi’s mausoleum

A school that embodies the dreams of Buddhist teacher Kobo Daishi

This temple guesthouse is home to national treasures

A grand temple complex established on Mount Koya some 900 years ago

Famous for its early blossoming cherry trees, which signify the coming of spring

Introducing Ekoin, a popular shukubo (temple lodging) at Mt. Koya (Koyasan) that has gained great popularity among LIVE JAPAN readers. Due to its high demand, it is recommended to make reservations about 4 months in advance. Staying here provides an opportunity to enjoy quiet time and traditional cultural experiences, and is sure to refresh both mind and body.

An oceanside hot springs resort with beautiful sunset views of Wakanoura

One of the last temples to prohibit entry to women

Spend your time comfortably in the visitor's lodging at a first-class ryokan

Admire the early-blooming cherry trees at Kimii-dera Temple and enjoy an onsen that contains highly concentrated mineral

The nation’s head Koyasan Shingon-shu temple

A huge offering of fresh seafood. Perfect for meals and souvenir-hunting

A fishing park where everyone can enjoy themselves, from beginners to experienced fishermen

Castle remains of the Kishu Tokugawa family made up of 555,000 stones

Built in the Gongen-zukuri style, this shrine was founded by the lord of the Kishu domain, Yorinobu Tokugawa, in 1621 to enshrine his father Ieyasu. Similar to Nikko Tosho-gu Shrine, the magnificent shrine pavilion is surrounded by sculptures by Jingoro Hidari and wall paintings by Tanyu Kano. Seven shrine structures including the Haiden, the Honden, and the vermillion Romon Gate, are designated as national Important Cultural Properties. At the shrine, Mikoshitogyo, which is one of the great festivals called Wakamatsuri, takes place where men carry mikoshi (portable shrine carried in festivals) and courageously descend 108 steps, followed by a parade of 1,000 people.

Meet the two famous cats that manage the station

Founded by Kobo-Daishi Kukai, this is a sacred place of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism, boasting a history of 1,200 years. Scattered across the mountain at approximately 900 meters above sea level are 117 temples, including Kongobu-ji Temple, forming a large religious town. With Danjogaran and Okuno-in at its core, this sacred territory has been visited by large number of Kukai's followers. Since the town is surrounded by forests, Mt. Koya is a great place to enjoy some hiking while visiting the temples.