WAmazing Play Editors’ Recommendations
![[Tokyo Skytree] Enjoy a Panoramic View of Tokyo! Admission Tickets for Tembo Deck & Tembo Galleria + Sumida Aquarium](https://d4y1bmgncyek9.cloudfront.net/images/fallbackImage.webp)
[Tokyo Skytree] Enjoy a Panoramic View of Tokyo! Admission Tickets for Tembo Deck & Tembo Galleria + Sumida Aquarium
Confirm in 48 hoursUSD31.23Skyliner Narita Airport - Ueno / Nippori Express / Normal Passenger Ticket＋[For both adults & children / 3 facilities to choose from] Enjoy Tokyo at a great price! Fun Tokyo Pass [7Days]
Confirm in 48 hoursUSD49.39Choose from 2 or 3 days! Unlimited use of 8 transportation lines ♪ Hakone Free Pass (Incluing Odakyu Line round-trip ticket)
Confirm in 48 hoursUSD45.25Skyliner Narita Airport - Ueno / Nippori Express / Normal Passenger Ticket
Instant BookingUSD14.72[For both adults & children / 3 facilities to choose from] Enjoy Tokyo at a great price! Fun Tokyo Pass [7Days]
Instant BookingUSD38.24[Akihabara Owl Cafe] Experience interacting with owls from all over the world ★ 1 hour admission course ★Owl Cafe Tokyo Akiba Fukurou
Confirm in 48 hoursUSD22.31Experience Japanese culture and history at YamaCafe, dress in kimonos and dine inside a historical building
Confirm in 48 hoursUSD93.05
In the Footsteps of Kukai: A Journey of Prayer - Wakayama Prefecture
- A confirmation email for your reservation will be sent to you within 48 hours.
- Required Time:
*2 days
- Reservation Time:
- 09:20
- Supported Languages:
- Japanese / Mandarin / English
- Participants(Min.):
- 2 People
- Participants(Max.):
- 2 People
- Min. Participants Required For Activity:
- 2 People
- Payment Method:
- Credit Card (VISA/MASTER/AMERICAN EXPRESS/JCB)
- Fee:
- JPY250,000 each for up to max 2 participants
- Age (Min.):
- 6 years old
- Cancellation:
- Yes
- Booking deadline:
- 30 days prior by 17:00
Activity
Prepare for your pilgrimage with a visit to the village at the base of the sacred Mount Koya
Handcraft an eco-fur charm inspired by the "bonten" tassels once worn by the ascetic monks of Mount Koya, re-designed to be used as accessories such as bag charms. These eco-fur "bonbori" lantern-style charms are environmentally friendly, and can be used as a sustainable protective charm. They are an excellent way to familiarize yourself with environmentally-friendly practices. Prepare for your pilgrimage to Mount Koya with one of these fluffy, adorable charms in hand.
Learn about the area's world-famous eco fur industry in Koyaguchi Town—where an atmosphere of sanctity meets the spirit of craftsmanship
Discover the craftsmanship which draws buyers from top European and American brands In Koyaguchi Town, Wakayama Prefecture—Japan's sole comprehensive pile fabric production area—and take part in a special craft experience to give your travel memories a tangible form. Select materials, colors and designs, and seasoned artisans will create a one-of-a-kind favorite eco-fur accessory just for you. The finished piece will be delivered at a later date, allowing you to keep the thrill of your journey close at hand for years to come. Your very own bespoke creation.
Retrace the footsteps of Kukai in a sacred place where Shinto and Buddhism coexist
The World Heritage Site of Mount Koya encompasses an unusual mixture of Shinto temples and Buddhist Shrines, including Kongobu-ji Temple, founded by Kukai as the fundamental center of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism, Niutsuhime Shrine, built to enshrine the Shinto gods Niutsuhime-no-Okami and Takanomiko-no-Okami, Niukanshofu Shrine, built as the tutelary shrine of the Kanshofu estate, and Jison-in Temple, established at the foot of the mountain as an administrative center to facilitate the construction and management of Kongobu-ji Temple. All of these shrines and temples are connected by the Koyasan Choishimichi Pilgrimage Route—the main approach to Mount Koya.
It has long since been a custom to first pay your respects at Niutsuhime Shrine, located between Jison-in and Kongobu-ji Temples, before continuing the ascent to Mount Koya. As such, monks undertaking training at Mount Koya invariably visit the shrine at significant milestones in their practice. (Excerpt from "Fusion of Shintoism and Buddhism," Niutsuhime Shrine homepage: https://niutsuhime.or.jp/en/e_heritage/)
Visit "Women’s Koya" Jison-in Temple and the World Heritage Site of Niutsuhime Shrine
Jison-in Temple, founded by the Great Master Kukai as the main entrance to Mount Koya, has historically been visited by many female worshipers, who were once forbidden from ascending the sacred Mount Koya. Even today, many women visit to dedicate breast-shaped votive tablets, praying for fertility, safe childbirth, child-rearing, successful breastfeeding, favorable marriage, and recovery from illness.
After visiting Jison-in Temple you will proceed to Niutsuhime Shrine which, steeped in over 1,700 years of history, is revered as a shrine for a deity who is believed to ward off disaster. Historically, this shrine has deep connections with Mount Koya, and its deity is revered as the deity who bestowed Mount Koya to Kukai. Furthermore, it is registered as a World Heritage Site alongside Mount Koya as part of the "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range", and its sacred atmosphere captivates all who visit.
Experience a special moment touring the sacred sites of Mount Koya with a monk
Commentary provided by a monk of Kongobu-ji Temple offers a fascinating and deeply profound insight into the worldview of Mount Koya, told from a unique perspective unlike that offered during a standard area tour. As this is a completely private guided tour, you will have ample opportunity to converse freely with the monk who will be guiding you. We encourage guests to prepare questions in advance to delve even deeper into the worlds of Shinto-Buddhist syncretism and esoteric Buddhism.
Okuno-in:
The path that leads to the mausoleum of Kukai. It is believed that Kukai entered into a state of deep meditation here in the year 835 at the age of 62, where he has continued his eternal meditation for over 1,200 years. You will take the path on the approach to the mausoleum which, lined with cedar trees over seven hundred years old, stretches approximately two kilometers from Ichinohashi Bridge (first bridge) to the mausoleum, flanked by over 200,000 memorial towers and gravestones. Upon reaching the sacred precincts where the mausoleum stands, you will offer your prayers in this dignified space. Enjoy the truly engaging experience of listening to fascinating historical anecdotes from the knowledgeable monk as you walk.
Danjo Garan Sacred Temple Complex:
The Danjo Garan Sacred Temple Complex, the first area developed when Kukai founded Mount Koya, symbolizes the Womb Realm Mandala, one of the two mandalas representing the world of Esoteric Buddhism. Within the precincts lie the Kondo, Mount Koya's main hall; the vermilion-lacquered Konpon Daito Great Pagoda, built as a symbol of Esoteric Buddhism; and the Mieido, where Kukai resided. As you tour each of these sites with commentary from the monk, you will find yourself enthralled by the magnificent appearance of the Great Pagoda.
Kongobu-ji Temple:
Kongobu-ji is the head temple of the Shingon sect of Mount Koya. The temple's large hall features panel screens painted with pines and cranes, beyond which lies the Buddha Hall, and further on is the Willow Room, adorned with more panel screens depicting willows and herons—be sure not to miss a single one of these beautiful adornments. The Willow Room is also known as the location where Toyotomi Hidetsugu, the nephew of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, took his own life by ritual suicide. You will feel as it you have been transported back in time as you listen to the historical tales recounted by the monk.
Okuno-in: https://visitwakayama.jp/en/attractions/detail_515.html
Danjo Garan Sacred Temple Complex: https://visitwakayama.jp/en/attractions/detail_481.html
Kongobu-ji Temple: https://visitwakayama.jp/en/attractions/detail_524.html
Schedule
Day 1
• Arrival Procedures
You will be picked up by taxi. Show the reservation page from your My Page upon arrival.
• Eco-fur order-made accessory and charm-making experience (120 minutes)
After learning about the history of eco-fur from the artisans at Okada Textiles and tracing the journey of Koyaguchi Town, Japan's sole comprehensive pile fabric production area, you will decide upon which accessory you would like made for you, choosing from a diverse range of high-quality materials recognized by global brands.
• Lunch (60 minutes)
• Jison-in Temple Visit (60 minutes)
This temple was founded as the main entrance of Mount Koya, established by the monk Kukai. It served as the temple's administrative center, overseeing the daily affairs of the entire Mount Koya complex, and also functioned as lodgings for visitors to the mountain, and as a place for winter training. As Mount Koya was off-limits to women at that time, Kukai's mother was unable to enter the mountain when she wished to visit, and thus resided here at Jison-in Temple.
• Niutsuhime Shrine Visit (60 minutes)
Niutsuhime Shrine, located at the foot of Mount Koya, has historically held deep ties with the mountain, and its deity is revered as the deity who bestowed Mount Koya to Kukai. Furthermore, it is registered as a World Heritage Site alongside Mount Koya as part of the "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range", and its sacred atmosphere captivates all who visit.Day 2
• Regroup at 9:50am at the Rinkan Okunoin-mae bus stop (the bus stop directly beside Ichinohashi Bridge)
• Tour Okuno-in with a monk (90 minutes)
Home to Kukai's mausoleum, Okuno-in is considered one of Mount Koya's most sacred spots alongside the Danjo Garan Sacred Temple Complex. The approximately two kilometer road is surrounded by trees that are over 700 hundred years old. As you walk along the path, lined with over 200,000 memorial towers and gravestones, you are sure to feel the faith of the worshipers who have visited throughout history.
• Lunch (60 minutes)
• Tour the Danjo Garan Sacred Temple Complex with a monk (120 minutes)
Danjo Garan Sacred Temple Complex: The site first developed by Kukai upon founding Mount Koya. Together with the monk, you will tour this sacred precinct that forms the heart of Mount Koya, including the Great Pagoda, which embodies the worldview of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism in three dimensions.
Kongobu-ji Temple: Founded by Kukai over 1,200 years ago, Kongbu-ji Temple is the head temple of the Mount Koya Shingon sect. Within its tranquil surroundings, you will even get to explore areas not normally open to the public.
*Those who would like to take part in the optional goma tofu-making experience (approximately 60 minutes) should gather at 10:00am
Included in the Fee
Not included in the Fee
Meeting Place
Nankai Electric Railway Koya Line / Hashimoto Station (JR Wakayama Line)
1-4-51 Kosada, Hashimoto-shi, Wakayama Prefecture 648-0065Directions
Nearest Station：Hashimoto Station
Things guests need to prepare on the day of the activity (clothes, belongings, etc.)
• Participants opting for the goma tofu-making experience should note that, although tofu rarely splatters onto clothing, those concerned may wish to bring an apron or similar.
Cancellation Policy
The cancel fee is based on the timing of the cancellation. Please check the cancellation policy below.
- After 13 days before date of use
- 30%
- After 7 days before date of use
- 50%
- After 4 days before date of use
- 80%
- After 1 days before date of use
- 100%
Notes
• The price listed is for 2 guests.
• Please note that we will contact you within 72 hours, but it may take up to one week to confirm your reservation.
• Please add an optional person if you are a group of 3 or more people (up to 5 people can be accommodated).
• On the second day, no hire car will be provided. Please either book a hire car as an optional extra or use a rental car or your own vehicle. Each stop generally has free parking available. Should these be full, please use the nearby coin-operated car parks.
Order-Made Eco-Fur Experience:
• Choose between a stole, bag, vest, or cushion cover on the day of your experience.
• Additional charges may apply depending on the accessory ordered. Please inquire locally when ordering for details.
• Any additional charges are payable locally. (Cash or credit card accepted)
• It will take at least one week to complete your custom accessory (fully original pieces may take over one month). Delivery is available both domestically and internationally (shipping costs are separate; please arrange and pay for this locally).
Charm-Making Experience:
• As needles and thread are used, children under 10 years old must be assisted by a parent or guardian.
• Fine fibers used during the experience may adhere to clothing.
Optional Goma Tofu-Making Experience:
• Should you book this experience, it will commence at 10:00am on Day 2 of your tour.
• Consequently, your tour of Okuno-in will be rescheduled to the afternoon. (Meet at 12:20pm at the Okuno-in/Nakanohashi Car Park). Please also note that you will finish later than scheduled.
Day 2 Meeting Location:
Location: Okuno-in, Rinkan Okunoin-mae bus stop (the bus stop directly beside Ichinohashi Bridge)
Address: 550 Koyasan, Koya-cho, Ito-gun, Wakayama Prefecture
Language Support:
• English and Chinese interpreters are available, subject to prior consultation. (Interpreter fees are charged separately.) Should you require this service, please inform us at the time of booking. Details regarding interpreter fees and payment methods will be communicated directly to you by the organizers via email.
Cancellation Policy:
• The experience may be canceled for safety reasons due to bad weather, natural disasters, or other unforeseen circumstances. In that case, WAmazing Play's customer support or the organizer will contact you using the emergency details you have provided. Please be sure to check your email or incoming calls on the day. (Notifications are typically sent after 2:00pm on the day before the event.)
Organizer
Koya-Sanroku Tourism Bureau
288 Nagura, Koyaguchi-cho, Hashimoto-shi, Wakayama Prefecture