Discover a different side of Koyasan in this fascinating, atmospheric walk through Japan’s most storied cemetery. This resting place of priests and samurai is home to countless legends, ancient cedar trees, and abundant wildlife. Even for travelers who have already seen the graves in the daytime, a return at dusk is sure to provide a uniquely memorable experience.
Programme Details
Check-in for the tour between 18:30 and 19:00 at TAIRA, a café directly across the street from Eko-in Temple on the main street in Koyasan. The tour departs at 19:00, when a priest will guide the group to the entrance of Okunoin Cemetery.
The cemetery itself is not spooky, but meditative and atmospheric. With a history reaching back almost 1200 years, there are plenty of amazing sights and fascinating legends to learn from the guide on this approximately 1 hour walk. This is not a “ghost tour” but a respectful look at Buddhist practices and Koyasan's history.
On lucky evenings, guests may even see local wildlife like flying squirrels, fireflies, and owls.
Walk past ancient graves covered in centuries of moss before reaching the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi, the founder of Koyasan. He rests here not dead and buried, but in “eternal meditation.” The priest will explain the great significance that Kobo Daishi had on Japanese history and culture, and then chant a solemn prayer.
The tour will disband at the far end of the cemetery. Guests can walk back to their temple lodging on their own, or take a bus at no additional charge.
(Note: The approximately 3km walk is mostly flat but does include slopes, steps, and rocky pathways. Not suggested for guests with mobility concerns or those who are not comfortable walking in the dark. Wheelchairs and strollers are not allowed.)
Notes:
- Shared booking option available from 1 to 18 guests age 6 and older.
- Irregular blackout dates on Buddhist holidays. Ask a Travel Consultant for more information.
- This tour includes approximately 3 km of walking and is mostly flat but does include slopes, steps, and rocky pathways. Not suggested for guests with mobility concerns or those who are not comfortable walking in the dark. Wheelchairs and stroller are not allowed.
- Guests who cannot keep up with the group may not be able to board the bus to return back to town at the end, and may have to walk back on their own.
- Tour departure time and finishing time may vary slightly based on group size.
- Comfortable closed-toed shoes like sneakers are mandatory; no sandals or high heels.
- Personal flashlights and smartphone lights are not allowed due to safety and preserving the atmosphere.
- Tour will operate in light rain but may be cancelled without notice in the case of bad weather. Tour operator does not provide umbrellas or raincoats.
- Photography is OK in most of the cemetery but not allowed in certain areas of the tour for religious reasons.
- Due to the temple’s curfew, guests staying at Renge-in Temple cannot participate in this tour.
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