Our trip to the mysterious and sacred Mount Koyasan was one of our most memorable experiences in Japan. We started from the hustle and bustle Tokyo by train to Osaka, full of anticipation to explore this historic Buddhist center.
How we got to Mount Koyasan
After a short stop in Osaka, we continued our journey on a combination of trains and cable cars, which took us through lush green mountains and misty landscapes, giving us a preview of the spiritual experience we would have. From Osaka Train Satation, we bought a single ticket that included 2 suburban trains and a cable car that takes you up to Mount Koyasan. The journey from Osaka onwards took us about 2,5 hours and cost around 15 euros per person. With the same ticket we could also use the only local bus to tour around the area.
A few words about Mount Koyasan
Mount Koyasan, located in the Kii Mountains of Japan, is one of the most important Buddhist centers in the country. It was founded in the 9th century by Kobo Daishi (Kūkai), the founder of Shingon Buddhism, and has been a center of spirituality and meditation ever since. The entire area, surrounded by towering cypress trees and lush green slopes, exudes tranquility and respect for tradition. Today, Koyasan is home to more than a hundred temples and monasteries, many of which offer hospitality to visitors who want to experience authentic monastic life.
Our arrival at Koyasan
Arriving at Koyasan, we found ourselves in another world. The peace, tranquility and sense of mystery that the place exudes were unique. The first attraction we visited was the famous Okunoin cemetery, which houses the graves of thousands of warriors, monks and historical figures. Walking among the ancient, moss-covered tombs, we felt an eerie calm. Stone lamps softly illuminated the path, creating an almost metaphysical atmosphere. Our final destination was the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism, where the prayers of the monks echoed in the air, adding a sense of sacredness.
Our stay in a monastery
Our stay at a traditional Buddhist monastery on Mount Koyasan was an experience of a lifetime. We were greeted with kindness, informed about the use of the hot springs, given our traditional attire, slippers (you are strictly allowed to walk around the monastery grounds only with slippers) and shown to our room. A simple but beautiful space with sliding paper doors and futons on the tatami.
One of the most unexpected perks of the monastery is its hot springs. After a busy day, relaxing in the onsen gave us a unique sense of well-being. The warm water, gentle on the senses, combined with the tranquility of the environment, helped us to assimilate the experiences of the day. For our stay at this Koyasan Onsen Fukuchi-in, we paid 130 euros per person for one night including dinner, breakfast and access to the hot springs for men and women until late at night.
Our dinner was a traditional vegan Shojin Ryori meal, cooked with simplicity, yet full of flavor and symbolism. The pure ingredients and calm atmosphere made us feel an inner peace and connection to the philosophy of Zen.
The prayer of the monks
In the morning we woke up early (at 6 a.m.) to watch the monks pray. The ritual, with the rhythmic sounds of chants and the gentle sound of the gong, immersed us in a meditative world, where time seemed to stand still. It was an experience that touched our souls, full of awe and gratitude. Afterwards we enjoyed our vegan breakfast and said goodbye to the monastery feeling grateful for the experience!
As we said goodbye to Koyasan, we felt calmer, refreshed, and grateful for this spiritual and cultural experience. It was a journey we will never forget – a dive into a world where history, nature, and spirituality coexist in perfect harmony.
We took the journey back, by a combination of cable cars and trains, this time to reach the heart of Japanese tradition, the wonderful Kyoto.
See more about mount Koyasan in the highlight stories #KOYASAN on Ιnstagram
