Okunoin graveyard is the place where Kukai still remains alive to this day. There is a night tour of “Kobo Daishi aka Kukai” in Okunoin graveyard between early dinner and bedtime. Monks who have license to guide in English take you an enjoyable tour.
During the tour, you can learn about Kobo Daishi, also known as Kukai, the founder of Koyasan, Legends (funny and scary stories in the cemetery), Daily life of monks, History of Koyasan, Tombs, Teachings of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism. It is also possible to see flying squirrels, big frogs and fireflies.
This curated walk highlights aspects of the cemetery that travelers often miss on unaccompanied visits, such as the symbolism surrounding the shape of the tombstones, Buddhist funeral culture and other traditions. Expect to be entertained with legends, both spooky and silly, and other interesting stories, all explained to you in English. This is a unique opportunity to experience Koyasan’s spiritual side at a time when all of the other tourists have gone home.
Tour Information
- Typr of Tour: Historical & Heritage Tours
- Address: Koya, Ito District, Wakayama 648-0211, Japan
- Tour Hours: 19:00 – 20:30
- Maximum Number of People per Group: 35
- Departure Date: Daily
- Enquiry Telephone: 80-3108-4790
- Enquiry Email: info@awesome-tours.jp
Admission Fee
- Purchase on the same day: Adult 2500 yen (over 12 years old, Child 500yen
- Advanced reservation online: Adult 2300 yen (over 12 years old), Child 300 yen
- Toddlers under 3 years old are free
Online Reservation
Advance reservation at a discounted rate is available. You can easily make a reservation from smartphone or PC in 2 minutesm or by telephone or e-mail (normal fee).
Reservation Website: https://awesome-tours.jp/%E9%AB%98%E9%87%8E%E5%B1%B1%E3%81%AE%E5%A4%9C/
Tour itinerary
- Meeting point: Ekoin 19: 00
- Departure at 19:15
- Tour itinerary: Ekoin → (about 2 km walk) → Okunoin / Mausoleum → Gokusho
- Finishing point: Okunoin Gokusho 20:30
