Overview
Koyasan has been one of Japan’s most important spiritual centers for over 1,200 years. This 21-stop self-guided audio tour takes you through its sacred sites, from the entrance at Daimon Gate to the forested paths of Okunoin. Your guide is Hiroyuki, a local guide from Wakayama who shares the history, legends, and daily life of this unique mountain town directly on your phone. Highlights include: Daimon Gate, the traditional entrance to Koyasan with its imposing guardian statues Danjō Garan, the sacred temple complex with key sites like Kondo Hall and Konpon Daitō Pagoda The Three-Pronged Pine, linked to the legend of Koyasan’s founding Kongōbu-ji, the head temple of Shingon Buddhism with one of Japan’s largest rock gardens Okunoin Cemetery, with over 200,000 memorial stones leading to Kōbō Daishi’s mausoleum How it works: Download the tour app (free, iOS and Android) Follow the GPS map and listen as you walk Pause, rewind, revisit anytime No guide to wait for. No group to follow.
Why travelers book this
What's Included
- Easy to use app
- Unlimited access to this Self-Guided Tour on the Exploro app
- Compatible with both iOS and Android
- Local expert curated itinerary with hidden stories and highlights
- Flexible: start, pause, or resume anytime at your own pace
- Interactive map with GPS navigation, directions, and marked stops
- Audio guide, pictures, recommendations and all the info you need
What's Not Included
- In-person Guide
Meeting & Pickup
Meeting point, pickup options and start time are confirmed on Viator before checkout.
Itinerary
Stop 1
You will start playing the first stop of our tour at this location.
Stop 2
This pine tree, enclosed by the fence, is connected to an important legend about the origins of Koyasan.
Stop 3
The shrines are associated with another legend concerning Kōbō Daishi’s founding of Koyasan.
Stop 4
Originally, this hall was built as Kōbō Daishi’s personal Buddha hall.
Stop 5
This building, designated as a National Treasure.
Stop 6
Founded in 1127.
Stop 7
To visit efficiently, I recommend using the local bus or renting a bicycle.
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels