1 Day Koya San Secret Buddhism mountain village Private Car Tour [from Kyoto]Uncover Koyasan’s Hidden Spiritual Wonders on a Private Day Tour from Kyoto
- Kyoto, Japan
- 10 hour tour
- Small group tour
- English speaking guide
- Instant Confirmation
What makes this tour unique
- One-day tour to Koyasan, a sacred site of Buddhism registered as a World Heritage site.
- In addition to a reliable driver, a local guide from the Kansai area shares explanations to deeply enjoy Koyasan. You will not only see but also know and feel the culture and history more deeply!
- Experience the temple architecture, Buddhist statues, gardens, and art that represent the esoteric Buddhist worldview perfected by the charismatic Japanese monk Kukai 1,200 years ago, and experience beautiful Buddhism culture in Japan's Buddhist holy land.
- Visit a rare temple that can only be seen by those with reservations, and visit lodgings where many monks used to eat, sleep, and practice. You can see Buddhist statues and mandala art that are not open to the public.
- Observe a gomagyo, one of the practices of esoteric Buddhism. Visitors can participate in the burning of prayer cards with their wishes written on them, burning away their worries and attachments with the flames.
- For lunch, enjoy Buddhist vegetarian cuisine called Shojin Ryori, which has long been eaten by monks. Try traditional Japanese vegan cuisine, carefully prepared and beautifully presented.
- Transportation is by chauffeur-driven private hire, so you can comfortably enjoy many spot of Koyasan efficiently with a knowledgeable guide
- - In addition to the driver, a guide will be provided, so you can enjoy Koyasan from a deeper perspective with commentary, rather than just seeing and touring
Tips and recommendations by our official guides
Discover the spiritual heart of Japan on this unforgettable one-day private car tour to Koyasan, a World Heritage Site nestled deep in the mountains. With a knowledgeable local guide and a professional driver, you’ll not only visit Koyasan’s must-see temples and hidden corners, but also experience its sacred energy in a way that goes far beyond sightseeing. You'll explore ancient lodgings once used by monks, view mandala art and Buddhist statues not normally open to the public, and even witness a traditional fire ritual where you can symbolically burn away your worries. To top it off, enjoy a beautifully presented Buddhist vegan lunch, known as Shojin Ryori, made with care and tradition.
Koyasan is not just another temple town — it's a religious city built over 1,200 years ago by the legendary monk Kukai, who brought the teachings of esoteric Buddhism from China. He founded Koyasan as the headquarters for this profound spiritual path, and the town’s layout, architecture, and rituals all reflect his vision. But understanding the depth of this sacred place requires more than just walking around. That’s why this tour includes a local guide who shares not only the history, but also the spiritual insights behind each place you visit, allowing you to truly feel the message Kukai intended to leave behind.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want to dive deeper into Japan’s spiritual culture. Whether you're drawn to sacred sites, fascinated by hidden temple art, or just looking to explore off-the-beaten-path places in comfort, this experience offers a unique and meaningful journey. Couples, friends, and anyone curious about Japanese Buddhism will find it enriching.
No need to worry if you don’t know much about Buddhism or Japan — your guide explains everything in a clear and friendly way. And though Koyasan is deep in the mountains, you’ll travel in comfort with a private vehicle and a driver who knows the area well. All meals and entrance fees are included, so you can simply relax and soak in the experience without unexpected costs. Join us and discover a side of Japan that most travelers never see.
Official guide
What's included
Step into the Mystical World of Esoteric Buddhism at Koyasan’s Grand Gate and Huge Temple
Your journey begins with a convenient hotel pickup and a scenic drive into the sacred mountains of Koyasan. Along the way, your local guide shares the fundamentals of Japanese Buddhism and the backstory of Kukai, the legendary monk who founded this mystical village over 1,200 years ago. Upon arrival, take a photo at the towering Daimon Gate, your symbolic entry into a spiritual realm. At Danjo Garan, explore a stunning temple complex filled with vibrant pagodas and sacred halls, all carefully designed to reflect the hidden meanings of esoteric Buddhism. With insightful commentary, you’ll begin to grasp how Koyasan was built not just as a city, but as a living mandala—an immersive spiritual map.
Discover Esoteric Buddhism Art, Beautiful garden and architecher and Taste Traditional Monk Cuisine in the Heart of Koyasan
Next, visit Kongobu-ji, the head temple of Shingon Buddhism, where Japan’s largest rock garden awaits. Walk through the quiet corrido and admire intricate sliding door paintings that bring Kukai’s journey to life. This is a peaceful pause to reflect on the beauty and depth of Koyasan’s heritage. Then, recharge with a lunch for the evening: Shojin Ryori, a refined form of vegan Buddhist cuisine. Lovingly prepared with seasonal ingredients, this temple meal delights the eyes and nourishes the body—offering a rare chance to experience the mindful diet practiced by monks for centuries. It's healthy, elegant, and surprisingly flavorful, giving you a perfect balance before the afternoon’s spiritual experiences.
Exclusive Temple Access, Fire Rituals, and a Sacred Walk Through Japan’s Most Spiritual Cemetery
After lunch, enter a reserved-access temple usually closed to the public. With a monk’s guidance and your guide’s translation, uncover sacred statues, exquisite mandalas, and spiritual symbolism hidden behind closed doors. Then, witness a powerful Goma fire ritual, one of the most dramatic practices in esoteric Buddhism. Flames blaze before the fierce statue of Fudo Myoo, as monks chant and burn prayer sticks—symbolically purifying your worries. You’ll even get to write your own wish and cast it into the fire. To close the day, walk through Okunoin, Japan’s holiest cemetery. As you follow the path lined with ancient gravestones toward Kukai’s mausoleum, you’ll feel the profound peace and timeless power of Koyasan.
Meeting Point
Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit Taxi Stand
- 1-minute walk from Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit
Itinerary
- Hotel Pickup or meeting up with the guide and the driver at the default meeting spot
- Visit Mt. Koya san Village
- Visit Daimon (Huge entrance)
- Visit Danjyo Garan Temple
- Visit Kongo buzi Temple
- Lunch (Traditional Buddhism Vegan Lunch)
- Visit a hidden temple and touring inside
- Join Buddhism purification fire ceremony called Goma
- Walk to Mount Koya's Okunoin Temple
- Hotel Drop-off
- A confirmation email will be sent immediately after booking.
- This tour is suitable for most travelers.
- Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking. Vegetarian and vegan options are available.
- The guide's food and drinks are covered and do not require any additional payment from you.
- The tour will proceed as scheduled, and refunds will not be provided for limited visibility due to weather. The itinerary may be adjusted or canceled depending on weather or traffic conditions.
- If shrines, temples, or other facilities are closed on the day of your tour, alternative locations will be visited instead. Cancellations or refunds will not be provided due to such changes.
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the tour starting time.
- Free date/time rescheduling up to 24 hours before the tour starting time (depending on availability).
Inform us about any dietary preferences or restrictions in advance.
| Dietary request | Availability |
|---|---|
vegan | ✓ possible |
vegetarian | ✓ possible |
gluten-free | ✕ unavailable |
We cannot be held responsible for any food allergens present at street food stalls during the tour.
No known allergens included
