Mount Koya or Koya san is one of the most revered mountain retreats in Japan. If you are here on a weekday, you can stroll the quiet temple gardens or the mature grand forests and enjoy the solitude all to yourself. This is a good summer retreat as it is a few degrees cooler than the heat from Osaka. You can come here on a day trip or stay overnight at the rustic temple accommodation.
- 1 min read
The Secret Garden of Koya San
One of Japan's most iconic mountain retreats
By Bonson Lam
Community writer
What lies beyond these ancient screens
Ancient and Modern at Mount Koya
The guardian over Mount Koya
Cleansing waters
Monks on a mountain top temple at koya san.
Zen Stone Garden and Pavilions at Mount Koya in Wakayama Prefecture
Corridor of solitude.
Stone Lantern and Autumn Leaves at Mount Koya
Bridge to a secret forest in Mount Koya
The soft glow of sunlight over the door frame
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