Mount Koya

A tiny temple town dedicated to the Shingon Buddhism sect, Mount Koya is rather unfrequented by travellers, but loved by pious locals. Fondly referred to as the ‘Holiest Mountain in Japan,’ it makes for a great side trip if you can stay in one of its temple lodgings (Shukubo). A part of the Wakayama Prefecture, hundreds of monasteries and temples line Mount Koya, and was established by the Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi sometime in 819. Apart from its religious shrines, with the Kongobuji Temple and the Danjo Garan being the most popular, the Okunoin Cemetery, which is also the monk’s mausoleum, is worth your time, and has some picturesque walking trails. Koya is rightfully the perfect destination for people who are obsessed with history and culture. The Banryutei Rock Garden, which happens to be the largest rock garden in the country, is also located on the mountain. Interestingly, this is where the UNESCO recognised Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route ends
The Nankai Railways from the Shin-Imamiya, and Namba Stations in Osaka will get you to Koyasan (Mount Koya). You would have to get down at the Gokurakubashi terminal station and then take a cable car up to the mountain. The town centre, on the other hand, can be accessed by bus. The entire journey should last around two hours, and you would have to pay approximately 1000 Yen for a single trip.