This four-day retreat is designed for travelers seeking a quieter side of Japan, centered on the sacred mountain temple town of Koyasan. Beginning in Osaka and rising into the cedar forests of Wakayama, the journey trades busy city sightseeing for meditation, temple lodging, and the timeless rhythm of Shingon Buddhist practice.
After settling in on arrival, you travel to Koyasan by limited express train and cable car, where an English-speaking guide introduces you to Kongobu-ji Temple, the vermilion pagodas of Danjo Garan, and a lantern-lit evening walk through Okunoin Cemetery. The following day brings hands-on experiences rarely available to independent visitors: Ajikan meditation, shakyo sutra copying, and the treasures of the Reihokan Museum, followed by a return to Okunoin in daylight.
Two nights in a traditional temple lodging, shojin-ryori vegetarian meals prepared by resident monks, and a gently paced schedule make this a restorative introduction to Japanese Buddhist culture — ideal for travelers who value depth and stillness over checklists, and for those adding a contemplative chapter to a longer stay in Japan.
Why This Tour Stands Out
- Stay two nights in a traditional temple lodging (shukubo) on the sacred mountain of Koyasan.
- Take part in authentic Ajikan meditation and shakyo sutra copying, guided in English.
- Walk the lantern-lit paths of Okunoin Cemetery at night with a knowledgeable local guide.
- A compact 4-day retreat that pairs beautifully with a longer journey through Japan.
Tour Pricing
| Group Size | Price (Per Person) |
|---|---|
| 2 | JPY 230,000 (USD 1,484) |
| 4 | JPY 169,000 (USD 1,090) |
| 6 | JPY 150,000 (USD 968) |
Tour prices do not include airfare, guide tips, meals, or transportation to/from airports.
*Exchange rate used: 1 USD = 160 JPY
Group size is flexible—please contact us for details.
Please note that prices may also vary during high-demand periods, including:
・March–April (spring season)
・Year-end and New Year holidays
・Obon holiday period (mid-August)
・Autumn foliage season
・Long holiday weekends
Final pricing will be confirmed based on travel dates and availability.
Itinerary
Day 1 | Osaka
Relax at your hotel and settle in after arrival.
Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Osaka
Day 2 | Koyasan
- Travel from Osaka to Koyasan
- Visit Kongobu-ji Temple
- Visit Danjo Garan
- Check in to your temple lodging
- Shojin-ryori dinner
- Okunoin Night Tour
Hotel: Temple Lodging (Shukubo) in Koyasan
Day 3 | Koyasan
- Ajikan Meditation Experience
- Shakyo Sutra Copying Experience
- Visit Reihokan Museum
- Explore Okunoin Cemetery
- Shojin-ryori dinner
Hotel: Temple Lodging (Shukubo) in Koyasan
Day 4 | Koyasan
Check out from your hotel and transfer to Kansai International Airport.
If you’d like to extend your stay, add experiences, or arrange hotels only without a guide, we’re happy to customize your plans.
Inclusions
- Private tour
- Dedicated English-speaking guide on Day 2 and Day 3
- 4 days itinerary
- 1 night accommodation in 3 star accommodation
- 2 nights accommodation in a traditional temple lodging (shukubo) in Koyasan
- Breakfast everyday
- Lunch on Day 2 and two shojin-ryori (Buddhist vegetarian) dinners at the temple lodging
- Public transportation
- Ajikan meditation, shakyo sutra copying, and the Okunoin night tour
- All entry fees to sites, activities as specified
- Private transfer from Koyasan to Kansai International Airport on the final day
Exclusions
- International airfares
- Arrival airport transfer
- Visas
- Tipping
- Optional activities
- Personal expenses
- Travel Insurance
- Anything not mentioned in the itinerary
Important Notes
If your inquiry is made within three months of your desired arrival date, the above prices may not apply. In such cases, we will provide a custom quotation based on availability and travel conditions.
Temple lodging, meditation sessions, sutra copying, and the Okunoin night tour require advance reservation and are subject to availability. Temple lodging offers simple, traditional accommodation — rooms are Japanese style with futon bedding, and some facilities may be shared.
Tell Us More, and We’ll Find the Best Plan for You
Interested in this 4-day package? Contact us anytime to begin planning your trip.
If you would like to extend your stay or add more experiences, we can arrange additional days, activities, or accommodations upon request.
We also offer fully customized itineraries tailored to your interests and travel style. To learn more, check out Tailor-Made Tour by ENJYU JAPAN.
