Mount Koya, Wakayama review.

Just south of the bustling urban sprawl that is Osaka lies a prefecture often overlooked by many despite its proximity to Osaka. This prefecture is Wakayama. In fact, if you were to head to Wakayama city, the capital of the prefecture, it would only take you forty minutes from Osaka International Airport.

Wakayama is often absent on many travellers' lists even though the Kansai area tops bucket lists far and wide. Located to the south of Osaka, one can take the Nankai electric railway, which spans through beautiful rural scenery, sleepy villages, and winding rivers. As the train stops become smaller to the point, they are only a solitary platform without visible access, the railway starts its ascent upwards, where you will notice the world outside becoming increasingly rural. This journey can easily fool you into thinking you have fallen into a Ghibli movie. Making a swap at Gokurakubashi, travellers will make their way up a cable car to complete the ascent up Mount Koya.

Once at the top a bus to the town is required, these run frequently and will drop you off at all the key points of interest. Welcome to Mount Koya, Japan’s largest temple settlement and home to Okunoin cemetery.

What motivates me to write about Mount Koya? The simplest answer is that Mount Koya left an imprint on me. After flying into Osaka Airport, I began my Obon journey with the train ride described above. Koya is not only the largest temple settlement but also the headquarters of Shingon Buddhism. It features 120 temples that visitors can explore and even stay in overnight. If you have ever seen a video of a traveler spending the night at a temple and experiencing the life of a monk, there is a high chance it was in Koya. Temples throughout the town welcome guests; however, it’s important to remember that if you choose to stay at one, there are certain curfews and rules to adhere to. Personally, I decided against this option, as the costs were far beyond my budget.

The area was initially settled in 819. Mount Koya rises to approximately 800 meters and is encircled by eight additional mountain peaks. The scenery is stunning and incredibly tranquil. For those seeking an escape from daily life and the hustle of the city, it's hard to imagine a more perfect retreat. The original monastery gradually evolved into the town of Koya. In 2004, UNESCO designated the area as a sacred site and a pilgrimage route.

My trip to Koya was truly unforgettable, and I look forward to sharing my experiences at the Okunoin cemetery, both during the day and at night. I highly recommend taking a night tour, as the cemetery is transformed into a tranquil space. The walkways are lined with thousands of lanterns, each showcasing different phases of the moon on its sides. The ambience here is beyond words.

Koya provides a wealth of experiences for its visitors, with many monks fluent in English. The town features convenience stores and several local eateries for quick bites. Stunning parks and a river meander through the area, creating a serene atmosphere, enriched by the gentle sounds of nature and its residents. The numerous temples offer captivating insights into Japanese culture and architecture, often showcasing elements of Buddhism while presenting fantastic photo opportunities. The soothing sound of bells ringing at specific times adds to the tranquil ambience.

The town boasts a variety of locally owned shops where you can buy fresh produce and discover unique souvenirs. Recently, the area has been promoting a new curry recipe inspired by one of the temples, allowing you to enjoy temple cuisine right in your own home. This vegan curry is perfect for everyone!

I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Koya and highly recommend it to anyone spending a day in the Kansai region. You certainly won’t regret it! The journey to the town lasts about two hours and is quite affordable. You can explore the cemetery free of charge, and most temples along the main road are also accessible without an entry fee. Koya offers a refreshing escape into nature and a glimpse into the spiritual traditions of Japan. Take a stroll through the natural surroundings and discover how Koya has diminished in size, while also learning about Japanese Buddhist perspectives on life and death. I assure you, this experience will be enlightening, at the very least.