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Have you ever heard "Koyasan"? Located about 1,000m above see level, it's the headquarters of the Koyasan sect of Shingon Buddhism founded 12 centuries ago by Kobodaishi and was designated officially as precious assets of world cultural heritage in 2004.
Nowadays, it caught up especially French and German visitors enthusiastically!! These visitors have experienced the intoxicating charms of koyasan for themselves, but what is it that makes this sacred peak a popular site...?!
Driving through the thick woods for a while, you'll find a magnificent red gate. It's the Daimon, the main entranc to Koyasan. From this point, time seems to flow at a different pace from the outside world as you enter a space infused by the rites and teachings of esoteric Buddhism.
Okunoin
 Okunoin is the central sanctuary of the Daishi faith*, surrounded by the impressive ceader tree woods. Tama River also runs along and addes a tranquil atmosphere where a half million of tombs are developed. You can see mausolem of Kobodaishi,  offering hall, mizukake jizo guardian deities and so on.
You have to see the hall of lanterns as well. It is located in the most back of Okunoin and the gloomy lanterns are so artistic and beautiful. Walking around with ear phone guide is preferable for tourists to provide an in-depth explanation of the attractions. (English,French, Chinese, Korean language are available). Enjoy the exclusive atmosphere which you can't feel anywhere else.
* The Daishi faith: Kobodaishi sailed to China in 804 to study Tantric Buddhism. After returning from China in 806 he began the Shingon Sect of Buddhism. Kobodaishi was said to start his eternal meditation in the cave of Okunoin in 835, many followers through out the ages have reported visits from his astral splirit.
Other Spots(Just a few of examples)
Konpondaito Pagonda:
Kobodaishi built this 48.5m tall pagonda for the esoteric practice s of Shingon Buddhism. Inside the pagonda, graceful drawings by Doumoto Insho are decorated. |
Kongobuji Temple:
Kongobuji Temple is in the middle of the sanctuary and is the main temple of Shingon Buddhism. This is the representative of 4000 Shingon Buddhism temples and 10 million priests. |
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 In Koyasan, you’ll be fully surrounded by the way of life in Buddhism. Experience the life style here will be invaluable for your customers’ stay in Japan. Tatami foor, fusuma doors, shouji(paper sliding-door), futon (Japanese blanket) ,yukata(cotton bathrobe), Japanese garden and Japanese healthy cuisine….all of them are waiting for their visit!!
Accommodation (Shukubo)
 Temples offer accommodation for visitors in Koyasan and you’ll experience the typical Japanese way of life with heartful hospitality by young priests.
Please have a look at:: Rare and Wonderful Stay in Temple(Shukubo)
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Eat, Drink, Stay and Play
Food (Shojin-ryouri)
 The traditional vegetarian food called shojin-ryori is the major cuisine in Koyasan. It is finely cooked without meat, fish, onions, or garlic and pretty delicious!
The recipi has been carried on from monk to monk for many years. Vegetable tempra, miso soup, rice, pickles, jellied mountain vegetable and more are included. Koyasan is famous for Goma-tofu, a bean curd made from sesame seeds. Its mild taste is irresistible!!
| *Notice for tours* |
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- It is reccomendable to set accommodation in your tour, for Koyasan is far from big cities and the appeal of Kouyasan is to stay in shukubo (temple).
- In shukubo, it’s difficult to use the internet.
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Currency exchande isn't available.
- Admission coupon pad is convenient and Valuable.
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There are no convenient stores in the area, so please plan accordingly. |
| *Model Itineraries* |
1 |
Day 1: Depart from Kyoto in the morning --> Lunch at Koyasan --> Koyasan sightseeing in the afternoon --> Stay at shukubo
Day 2: Depart from Koyasan in the morning --> Lunch at Osaka --> Osaka sightseeing in the afternoon --> Stay at Osaka |
2 |
Day 1 Arrive at Koyasan and stay in shukubo
Day 2 Free plan in the morning --> Depart for Kansai International Airport --> Stay at a hotel near the airport --> Walk to the airport and check in |
| *Access* |
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By bus: 2 and a half hour drive from Osaka / 5 hour drive from Nagoya
By train: 1.25 hour from Osaka Nanba station / 2 hours from Wakayama station |
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