Visit Wakayama

The first Shingon esoteric Buddhism temple in Japan, built by Kobo Daishi Kukai.

It is one of the temples and shrines registered as a World Heritage site in the ancient capital of Kyoto, and its symbolic five-story pagoda, at about 55 meters, is the tallest wooden structure in Japan.

The temple is also known for its cherry blossoms and autumnal foliage, and in spring and fall, the temple grounds are decorated with gorgeous colors, which can be enjoyed in splendid harmony with the five-story pagoda.

Express buses run directly between Kyoto and Koyasan from April to November.

You can travel from Kyoto to Koyasan without changing buses. Enjoy a convenient and comfortable trip.

The mausoleum (tomb) of Kobo Daishi is located in the inner sanctuary. Together with the Danjo Garan, it is said to be one of the two most sacred sites in Koyasan, and is still worshipped by the people of Koyasan.

The approach to the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi from Ichinohashi Bridge, the official entrance to the temple, is about 2 km long, and is lined with tombstones, monuments, and memorials of various feudal lords, writers, actors and poets in a cedar grove, creating a mystical atmosphere.

Kongobu-ji Head Temple, founded by Kobo Daishi, plays a central role among the 117 temples in Koyasan.

The main gate and grand entrance, which were once closed to the public, as well as one of the largest stone gardens in Japan, Banryu-tei, and sliding door paintings of the Kano school, are just a few of the temple's many attractions.

This is where Kobo Daishi first started his construction works when he opened up Koyasan. It is the center of faith, along with Okuno-in, and is lined with 19 halls, including Kondo, the main hall of Koyasan, and the 48.5 meters Konpon Daito, the symbol of Koyasan. Kondo and Konpon Daito can be viewed inside.

Koyasan has 51 shukubo, where ordinary visitors can stay overnight.

Meals are vegetarian meals prepared without using any meat or fish. Early in the morning, sutra recitation and prayer services (morning service) are held, and you are encouraged to participate. There are also lodgings where you can experience the Goma prayer ritual, meditation, and sutra copying.

*To make reservations for lodging, please ask the Koyasan Shukubo Association for referrals or contact the temple directly.

The long and arduous journey from Kyoto to Kumano, where royalty and aristocrats have been making pilgrimages since the Heian period, continued here to Kumano Hongu Taisha Grand Shrine.

Climbing the 158 stone steps surrounded by cedar groves and passing through the shrine gate, one arrives at the main shrine building. Four shrine pavilions with hiwadabuki thatched roofs and made of white wood stand solemnly.

After visiting the shrine, go to "Oyunohara," where the old shrine building was located before it was relocated. Oyunohara, which is said to be where the gods descended, is also attracting attention as a power spot. The huge torii gate, 34 meters high and 42 meters wide, is a landmark.

Yunomine Onsen is said to have been used by travelers on pilgrimages to Kumano to purify themselves and heal from fatigue. Ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) and minshuku (private residences) that retain the atmosphere of a therapeutic bathhouse stand side by side.

"Tsuboyu," a natural hot spring rock bath in the center of the area, is registered as a World Heritage site as part of the pilgrimage route.

At the source along the river, boiling water of 90 degrees Celsius gushes out, and eggs and vegetables can be boiled and eaten! Known as a yuzutsu, it is a place of relaxation for locals and tourists alike.

The market is run by a local fishing cooperative, so the taste and freshness of the food are guaranteed. You can enjoy not only seafood bowls and sushi, but also barbecue using seafood, meat, vegetables, and other ingredients sold in the market.

Tuna cutting shows of tuna caught directly from Nanki-Katsuura Fishing Port and other ports are also popular. You can also find Wakayama's specialty products such as pickled plums, local sake, and panda-themed merchandise, making it a perfect place to look for souvenirs.

Shirarahama is a beautiful white sandy beach representing the Kansai area. The emerald green sea and rows of palm trees make you feel as if you are at a tropical beach resort. It is also a wonderful place to relax and enjoy delicious food and sweets at a cafe overlooking the ocean.

There is also a footbath, so we recommend stopping by to take a break during your stroll.