On paper, the journey to reach Koyasan (reverently known as Mount Koya in Japan) looks a bit complicated. But the journey (usually from Osaka or Kyoto, by train, cable car and bus) is actually a beautiful one and well worth a visit to the spiritual center of the country's Shingon Buddhism.
Brought to Japan in 805 by Kobo Dashi, the Shingon Buddhist sect is headquartered on top of this remote mountain.
There are many historic temples here, many of which offer guests a unique overnight experience of watching monks' prayers, participating in meditation sessions and traditional Buddhist vegetarian meals.
One of Koyasan's main attractions is Okuno-in, the shrine of Kobi Dashi, Japan's largest cemetery with over 200,000 tombstones, located in a vast cemetery in the forest. At dusk, lanterns are lit on the paths along the moss-covered stone monuments and mausoleums.
Even during the day, the high forest canopy filters the sunlight, creating a beautiful interplay of light and shadow.
