Hidden Gems of Japan: Ise-Shima Escape
Golden Route Plus: Ise-Shima Escape Hotel Standard
Explore Japan's hidden gems on this 12-day self-guided tour from Tokyo to Kashikojima via Nagoya. Visit Ise Grand Shrine and pearl island paradise.
18 tours available
Koyasan (Mount Koya) is the spiritual heart of Shingon Buddhism, founded in 816 AD by the monk Kukai. Perched on a remote mountaintop plateau in the Kii Peninsula, this sacred temple town of over 100 monasteries feels worlds away from modern Japan. Walking through the towering cedar-lined Okunoin cemetery — Japan's largest, with over 200,000 tombstones — is one of the most profound experiences the country offers.
Staying overnight in a shukubo (temple lodging) is the essential Koyasan experience. You'll sleep on futons in tatami rooms, eat exquisite shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine), and wake before dawn to join monks in morning prayer. The combination of spiritual atmosphere, ancient forest, and complete digital detox makes Koyasan a highlight for nearly every visitor.
Autumn (late October – mid November) — The maple trees around Kongobu-ji and Danjo Garan turn vivid crimson against the dark cedar forest. The most visually striking season.
Summer (June – August) — At 800 metres elevation, Koyasan is noticeably cooler than the lowland cities. Locals have used it as a mountain retreat from the heat for centuries.
June 15 (Aoba Matsuri) — A vibrant festival celebrating Kukai's birthday with costumed processions, taiko drums, and flower offerings along the main avenue.
Golden Route Plus: Ise-Shima Escape Hotel Standard
Explore Japan's hidden gems on this 12-day self-guided tour from Tokyo to Kashikojima via Nagoya. Visit Ise Grand Shrine and pearl island paradise.
Golden Route Plus: Ise-Shima Escape Hotel Deluxe
12-day tour with deluxe hotels: Tokyo to Kashikojima via Nagoya. Upgraded stays, Ise Grand Shrine, pearl island coast, and Shinkansen all included.
Faith & Tradition: Koyasan, Ise-Shima & Shirakawa-go Hotel Standard: Departures from April to November
Temple stay at Koyasan, Ise Grand Shrine visit, Ago Bay cruise, and Shirakawago's thatched villages. 15-day spiritual journey through Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara.
Faith & Tradition: Koyasan,Miyajima & Shirakawa-go Hotel Standard: Departures from April to November
Temple stay at Koyasan, Hiroshima Peace Park, and Miyajima's floating shrine. 15-day tour featuring Himeji Castle, Kyoto gardens, and Shirakawago.
Faith & Tradition: Koyasan 2nights & Shirakawa-go Hotel Standard: Departures from April to November
Two-night temple stay at Koyasan, explore mystical Okunoin cemetery, and visit Shirakawago. 12-day spiritual tour through Tokyo, Kyoto, and Takayama.
Faith & Tradition: Koyasan 2nights & Kinosaki Hotel Standard: Departures from April to November
Koyasan temple stay, scenic Amanohashidate, Kinosaki onsen hopping, and Himeji Castle. 12-day self-guided tour with Shinkansen and luggage delivery.
Faith & Tradition: Koyasan,Ise-Shima & Shirakawa-go Hotel Deluxe: Departures until November 2026
Koyasan temple stay with deluxe hotels: 15-day tour with Ise Grand Shrine, Ago Bay, and Shirakawago. Premium stays from Tokyo to Kyoto and Nara.
Faith & Tradition: Koyasan,Miyajima & Shirakawa-go Hotel Deluxe: Departures until November 2026
Koyasan and Hiroshima with deluxe hotels: 15-day spiritual tour with Miyajima, Himeji Castle, and Shirakawago. Upgraded stays throughout.
Faith & Tradition: Koyasan 2nights & Shirakawa-go Hotel Deluxe: Departures until November 2026
Koyasan two-night stay with deluxe hotels: 12-day tour through Tokyo, Kyoto, and Takayama. Premium accommodation and Shirakawago visits.
Faith & Tradition: Koyasan 2nights & Kinosaki Hotel Deluxe
Koyasan and Kinosaki with deluxe hotels: 12-day tour featuring Amanohashidate, onsen hopping, and Himeji Castle. Premium stays included.
Golden Route Plus: Ise-Shima Escape
12-day solo journey: Tokyo, Nagoya, Kashikojima. Travel independently with pre-booked hotels, trains, and 24/7 support.
Faith & Tradition: Koyasan 2nights & Shirakawa-go
12-day solo journey: Tokyo, Koyasan, Kyoto. Travel independently with pre-booked hotels, trains, and 24/7 support.
Travel with Kintetsu Railway: Spring to Autumn Departures
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The Koya Mountains: Tokyo Start, Osaka Finish
Ready to Book. Pay Within 7 Days to Confirm.
The Koya Mountains: Tokyo Start, Osaka Finish
Ready to Book. Pay Within 7 Days to Confirm.
The Koya Mountains: Tokyo Start, Osaka Finish
Ready to Book. Pay Within 7 Days to Confirm.
The Koya Mountains: Tokyo Round Trip
Ready to Book. Pay Within 7 Days to Confirm.
The Koya Mountains: Tokyo Round Trip
Ready to Book. Pay Within 7 Days to Confirm.
Region
Kansai
Location
Available Tours
18 tours