Earn OneKeyCash when you sign in and book an activity

Koyasan Day Trip by Private Car from Kyoto

By MagicalTrip Inc.

Free cancellation available

See tickets

Features

Free cancellation available
10h
Mobile voucher
Instant confirmation

Overview

Journey to Koyasan, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a serene Buddhist village nestled in the mountains, on this exclusive private day tour from Kyoto. With a personal guide, explore ancient temples, witness a traditional Goma fire ritual, and enjoy an exquisite Buddhist vegan lunch known as Shojin Ryori. Delve into the rich history and spiritual significance of Koyasan, founded by the monk Kukai over 1,200 years ago, while gaining insights into esoteric Buddhism through your guide’s commentary. This experience is perfect for those seeking a deeper understanding of Japan's spiritual culture.

10-hour private tour with knowledgeable local guide
Visit exclusive temples and participate in a Goma fire ceremony
Enjoy a traditional vegan lunch, beautifully presented
Comfortable transport with hotel pick-up and drop-off included

Activity location

Mt. Koya
- Koya-cho, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan

Meeting/Redemption Point

Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit Parking Lot
- 31 Higashikujō Nishisannōchō
- 601-8003, Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan

Check availability

Koyasan Day Trip by Private Car from Kyoto

10h
English

Travelers

Language options: English

Starting time: 8:00am

Price details

$894.57 x 1 Adult$894.57

Total

Until Sun, Oct 19

What's included, what's not

10-hour private chauffeur service with licensed Japanese driver.
Lunch :Traditional Buddhism vegan lunch is included.
Tour photos :Photos during the tour would be shared after the tour through email.
Hotel Pick-up & Drop-off: Please send your pick-up location at least 24 hours before the tour.
Entrance fees of all venues we will visit
10-hour with MagicalTrip certificed guide

Know before you book

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
A confirmation email will be sent immediately after booking.
This tour is suitable for most travelers.
Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking. Vegetarian and vegan options are available.
The guide's food and drinks are covered and do not require any additional payment from you.
The tour will proceed as scheduled, and refunds will not be provided for limited visibility due to weather. The itinerary may be adjusted or canceled depending on weather or traffic conditions.
If shrines, temples, or other facilities are closed on the day of your tour, alternative locations will be visited instead. Cancellations or refunds will not be provided due to such changes.

Activity itinerary

Mt. Koya

10m
Admission ticket included

Your journey begins with a convenient hotel pickup and a scenic drive into the sacred mountains of Koyasan. Along the way, your local guide shares the fundamentals of Japanese Buddhism and the backstory of Kukai, the legendary monk who founded this mystical village over 1,200 years ago.

Kongobu-ji Temple

45m
Admission ticket included

Upon arrival, take a photo at the towering Daimon Gate, your symbolic entry into a spiritual realm. At Danjo Garan, explore a stunning temple complex filled with vibrant pagodas and sacred halls, all carefully designed to reflect the hidden meanings of esoteric Buddhism. With insightful commentary, you’ll begin to grasp how Koyasan was built not just as a city, but as a living mandala—an immersive spiritual map.

Koyasan Danjo Garan

40m
Admission ticket included

At Danjo Garan, explore a stunning temple complex filled with vibrant pagodas and sacred halls, all carefully designed to reflect the hidden meanings of esoteric Buddhism. With insightful commentary, you’ll begin to grasp how Koyasan was built not just as a city, but as a living mandala—an immersive spiritual map.

Kongobu-ji Temple

40m
Admission ticket included

Next, visit Kongobu-ji, the head temple of Shingon Buddhism, where Japan’s largest rock garden awaits. Walk through the quiet corrido and admire intricate sliding door paintings that bring Kukai’s journey to life. This is a peaceful pause to reflect on the beauty and depth of Koyasan’s heritage.

Koya-cho

Then, recharge with a lunch for the evening: Shojin Ryori, a refined form of vegan Buddhist cuisine. Lovingly prepared with seasonal ingredients, this temple meal delights the eyes and nourishes the body—offering a rare chance to experience the mindful diet practiced by monks for centuries. It's healthy, elegant, and surprisingly flavorful, giving you a perfect balance before the afternoon’s spiritual experiences.

Shojoshin-in Temple

50m
Admission ticket included

After lunch, enter a reserved-access temple usually closed to the public. With a monk’s guidance and your guide’s translation, uncover sacred statues, exquisite mandalas, and spiritual symbolism hidden behind closed doors

Shojoshin-in Temple

1h
Admission ticket included

Then, witness a powerful Goma fire ritual, one of the most dramatic practices in esoteric Buddhism. Flames blaze before the fierce statue of Fudo Myoo, as monks chant and burn prayer sticks—symbolically purifying your worries. You’ll even get to write your own wish and cast it into the fire

Mt. Koya

1h
Admission ticket included

As you follow the path lined with ancient gravestones toward Kukai’s mausoleum, you’ll feel the profound peace and timeless power of Koyasan.

Location

Activity location

Mt. Koya
- Koya-cho, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan

Meeting/Redemption Point

Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit Parking Lot
- 31 Higashikujō Nishisannōchō
- 601-8003, Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan

Best Deals on Things to Do

Experience the wonders of the world up close with great deals on things to do near and far. Expedia offers one-of-a-kind activities that allow you to explore Koya-cho your way. Whether you love nature, culture, food, or a bit of adventure, we have the perfect activity for you.

Top Experiences in Koya-cho

With so many things to do in Koya-cho, planning the perfect day out may seem like a daunting task. Expedia is here to take the hassle out of finding the best attractions, tours, and activities in Koya-cho. Families, couples, and business travelers can all find the perfect activity in Koya-cho to create life-long memories with the help of Expedia.