From Osaka/Kyoto: Mount Koya & Wakayama Private Day Trip .
About this Activity
Free Cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve Now & Pay Later
Keep your travel plans flexible
Duration 8–10 Hours
Check availability to see starting times
Driver
Japanese, English
Wheelchair Accessible
Private Group
$633.00
Tour Description
Experience the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Wakayama Prefecture and Mount Koya on a private, fully customizable 10-hour tour. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, this tour allows you to explore at your own pace with a knowledgeable, English-speaking guide.
Begin your day with convenient pick up service directly from your accommodation in Osaka. From there, travel comfortably in a private vehicle, ensuring a personalized and stress-free journey . Your first destination could be the majestic Mount Koya, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the center of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. At Mount Koya, you can start with the impressive Daimon Gate, the iconic crimson-painted gateway guarded by towering statues .
Continue to Konpon Daito, the central pagoda of Mount Koya, where you can admire its vivid Buddhist murals and serene atmosphere. Your guide will provide insights into the religious significance of this site, enhancing your understanding of Japan’s spiritual traditions.
Next, visit Kongobu_ji Temple, the head temple of the Shingon sect. Marvel at its exquisite architecture, delicate sliding screen paintings, and the largest rock garden in Japan. Pause to enjoy a traditional Shoujin Ryori lunch, type of vegetarian Buddhist cuisine, offering a taste of the region’s culinary heritage .
For a truly spiritual experience , head to Okuno-in, Mount Koya’s most sacred site. Cross the Ichinohashi Bridge and walk along the Sandō path lined with centuries-old cedar trees to reach the famous Toro-do Hall, home to the eternal flame. Visit the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi, the revered founder of Shingon Buddhism, and reflect in the tranquil surroundings.
Your private tour is entirely customizable, so you can choose to visit other notable sites in Wakayama Prefecture or focus on exploring more of Mount Koya, depending on your interests. The day concludes with a comfortable return to your Osaka accommodation, leaving you with memories of a unique cultural journey through Japan.
Highlights
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Wakayama Prefecture and Mount Koya
Visit Mount Koya a UNESCO World Heritage site and the center of Shingon Buddhism
Explore the impressive Daimon Gate, the iconic crimson-painted gateway
Admire the vivid Buddhist murals and serene atmosphere of Konpon Daito
Enjoy a traditional Shoujin Ryori lunch, a type of vegetarian Buddhist cuisine
What’s Includes
Travel Guide
Luxury Travel
Unlimited Fuel
Electronic Toll Collection (ETC)
Parking Fee
What’s Excludes
Food
Personal Expenses
Attraction Ticket
Know Before You Go:
Wear comfortable walking shoes as there will be a moderate amount of walking
Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately
Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated
Photography is allowed, but please be respectful in religious areas
What to Bring:
Comfortable Shoes
Comfortable Clothes
Daypack
Itinerary
2 Pickup Location: Osaka & Kyoto
Van (105 mins)
Wakayama Castle
Photo stop, Visit, Guided tour, Free time, Sightseeing (1 hour)
Kongobuji Temple, Mount Koya
Photo stop, Visit, Free time, Sightseeing (1 hour)
Mount Koya
Photo stop, Visit, Guided tour, Free time, Sightseeing (1 hour)
Kuroshio Market
Photo stop, Visit, Guided tour, Free time, Sightseeing, Scenic
views on the way