Mt. Koya (Koyasan) is home to an active monastic center founded 1,200 years ago by the great monk Kukai (posthumously known as Kobo Daishi) for the study and practice of Esoteric Shingon Buddhism, a faith with a wide following throughout Japan. Even now it is home to a majestic and mysterious atmosphere that charms the people who visit it. 117 temples are scattered within Koyasan, and 52 temples offer accommodation and meals for visitors, known as Shukubo (temple lodging). Koyasan, including the pilgrimage routes, has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004, and is also famous as a wonderful place for autumn foliage viewing.

■Go Back
>>Senshu & Wakayama tourism map top page