Koyasan Overnight Temple Stay – Experience Japan’s UNIQUE Destination
Deep in the mountains of Japan, we discovered Koyasan, a mystical place where ancient traditions are still alive. Known as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Koyasan is the heart of Shingon Buddhism and home to over 100 historic temples offering unique temple lodging experiences.
We spent two nights at Fukuchi-in Koyasan, one of the most beautiful Koyasan temple stays, where we experienced shojin ryori, the traditional vegetarian cuisine of monks, and relaxed in a serene onsen.
At night, we walked through Okunoin Cemetery, Japan’s most sacred resting place, where the legendary Kobo Daishi is believed to be in eternal meditation. In the morning, we attended a powerful Buddhist ceremony, before setting off on a Koyasan hike along a section of the ancient pilgrimage trails that have guided monks for centuries.
From exploring Koyasan Saizenin and other historic temples to discovering a hidden sushi spot in the mountains, this trip was full of surprises! Whether you’re looking for a Koyasan day trip or planning a Koyasan overnight stay at a shukubo like Ekoin or Fukuchi-in, this guide will show you the best things to do in Koyasan.
Thinking of visiting Koyasan in winter or summer? This magical destination offers something special in every season. And if you’re wondering about day trips from Osaka or Kyoto, Koyasan is one of the most unique experiences you can have in Japan!
Summary of the best things to do in Koyasan:
✨ Take a scenic train and cable car ride to Japan’s sacred mountain town
🛏️ Stay in a traditional Buddhist temple at Fukuchi-in Koyasan
🍱 Try Shojin Ryori, the unique vegetarian cuisine of monks
🌲 Walk through Japan’s most legendary cemetery, Okunoin, at night
🚶♂️ Hike part of an ancient pilgrimage trail (Koyasan hike)
🌲 Discover the 100+ temples of Koyasan
🍣 Discover a hidden sushi spot in the mountains
🚆 And get unexpectedly stuck in a rare Japanese train delay!
Koyasan is a world of misty forests, peaceful monks, and incredible history, and we can’t wait to share this adventure with you!
📍 Have you ever stayed in a temple? Let us know in the comments!
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📖 VIDEO CHAPTERS:
0:00 – 0:33 – Intro to Koyasan World Heritage Site, Japan
0:33 – 1:00 – Trip from Osaka to Koyasan
1:00 – 2:40 – Fukuchi-In Temple Stay
2:40 – 3:37 – Buddhist Cuisine – Shojin Ryori
3:37 – 4:34 – Okunoin Cemetery by Night
4:34 – 5:25 – Buddhist Morning Ceremony and Breakfast
5:25 – 6:29 – Hiking in Koyasan – Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Hike
6:29 – 7:53 – Guide to the Temples of Koyasan
7:53 – 9:10 – Exploring Koyasan Town and Best Sushi
9:10 – 10:02 – Trip from Koyasan to Kyoto
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1 Comment
Koyasan was a truly special experience, and was well worth the detour between Osaka and Kyoto. It had a chilled spiritual vibe that we did not experience anywhere else in Japan. I feel without the temple stay the visit is not complete and if you have time stay longer to explore the hikes. What do you think? What was YOUR experience? Share in the comments! Thank you!