"Ekoin was fabulous. The property is beautifully maintained, the food was delicious and the staff could not have been more pleasant and accommodating. 5 Stars !!"
"Ekoin was fabulous. The property is beautifully maintained, the food was delicious and the staff could not have been more pleasant and accommodating. 5 Stars !!"
"Beautiful stay at a lovely authentic temple. Staff were wonderful and the meals were outstanding. Great experience at morning service with Buddhist monks."
"Beautiful stay at a lovely authentic temple. Staff were wonderful and the meals were outstanding. Great experience at morning service with Buddhist monks."
"I didn't realize this was a temple until I checked in but I had such a great experience and it was so worth it! I had a very restful evening here and the monks and staff were very gracious and helpful. This was really an unforgettable experience. The whole time here I felt calm, peaceful and healthy. Great food, nice communal bath and amazing experiences taking part in the various ceremonies. Really special time for my Japan trip."
"I didn't realize this was a temple until I checked in but I had such a great experience and it was so worth it! I had a very restful evening here and the monks and staff were very gracious and helpful. This was really an unforgettable experience. The whole time here I felt calm, peaceful and healthy. Great food, nice communal bath and amazing experiences taking part in the various ceremonies. Really special time for my Japan trip."
"One of the most unique properties we have ever stayed at. The room is a combination of old and new done exceedingly well. The property manager is outstanding. "
"One of the most unique properties we have ever stayed at. The room is a combination of old and new done exceedingly well. The property manager is outstanding. "
"This traditional Japanese Inn is thoroughly modern with excellent facilities, rooms, Michelin quality food, and helpful staff. We want to call out ‘Mikki’ who was super kind and helped us with any language barriers we had. The entire restaurant staff was amazing and we are grateful to meet the chef. The onsens were also wonderful. A room here with breakfast and dinner included is an excellent value."
"This traditional Japanese Inn is thoroughly modern with excellent facilities, rooms, Michelin quality food, and helpful staff. We want to call out ‘Mikki’ who was super kind and helped us with any language barriers we had. The entire restaurant staff was amazing and we are grateful to meet the chef. The onsens were also wonderful. A room here with breakfast and dinner included is an excellent value."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
This sacred mountain cradles over 100 temples where Shingon Buddhism has flourished for 1,200 years. Stay overnight in a temple lodging to experience morning prayers and traditional vegetarian Buddhist cuisine.
Japan's largest cemetery surrounds Kobo Daishi's mausoleum, with 200,000 tombstones nestled among ancient cedars. Walk the two-kilometer spiritual path at dawn when mist creates an otherworldly atmosphere.
The Danjo Garan complex showcases Shingon Buddhism's heart with its vermilion Konpon Daito pagoda and historic halls. Visit at dawn when morning light bathes the ancient structures in a mystical glow.
Nestled on sacred Mount Kōya, this university specializes in esoteric Shingon Buddhist studies within a UNESCO site. Explore its historic campus alongside ancient temples for a profound spiritual experience.
This mountaintop temple houses Japan's largest rock garden, depicting two dragons emerging from clouds. Wander through ornate halls adorned with masterful fusuma paintings that showcase centuries of Buddhist artistry.
This thousand-year-old Shingon Buddhist temple offers overnight stays in monastic traditions. Wake to morning sutra chanting, experience the sacred Goma fire ritual, and savor authentic vegetarian shojin ryori cuisine.
Daishi Kyokai offers immersive Shingon Buddhist experiences where visitors can receive precepts and copy sutras. Participate in the meditative shakyo activity for a profound connection to Japan's spiritual traditions.
This 13th-century temple houses the Tahoto pagoda, a National Treasure, amid serene gardens. Experience authentic Buddhist life with an overnight stay including morning prayers and traditional vegetarian cuisine.
Sacred temples and ancient cedar forests create a mystical atmosphere in Mount Koya's Buddhist sanctuary. Wake before dawn to join monks in morning meditation rituals and explore Okunoin Cemetery's moss-covered tombstones by lantern light.
Great experience. Location is great. Quiet and warm atmosphere. Dinner was well prepared. You have to sit down on tatami for dinner, but low chairs available. After meals, we were invited to the meditation. Morning service at 6:30 was a great way to start the day. Very nice atmosphere and it is run well. I do highly recommend.
Great experience. Location is great. Quiet and warm atmosphere. Dinner was well prepared. You have to sit down on tatami for dinner, but low chairs available. After meals, we were invited to the meditation. Morning service at 6:30 was a great way to start the day. Very nice atmosphere and it is run well. I do highly recommend.
This traditional Japanese Inn is thoroughly modern with excellent facilities, rooms, Michelin quality food, and helpful staff. We want to call out ‘Mikki’ who was super kind and helped us with any language barriers we had. The entire restaurant staff was amazing and we are grateful to meet the chef. The onsens were also wonderful. A room here with breakfast and dinner included is an excellent value.
This traditional Japanese Inn is thoroughly modern with excellent facilities, rooms, Michelin quality food, and helpful staff. We want to call out ‘Mikki’ who was super kind and helped us with any language barriers we had. The entire restaurant staff was amazing and we are grateful to meet the chef. The onsens were also wonderful. A room here with breakfast and dinner included is an excellent value.
Very friendly and helpful staff. Room is super clean and appears to be newly renovated. The shower is not spacious but very comfortable with strong water flow. The courtyard is absolutely beautiful. We stayed for one night before our morning flight and it fits this purpose really well.
Very friendly and helpful staff. Room is super clean and appears to be newly renovated. The shower is not spacious but very comfortable with strong water flow. The courtyard is absolutely beautiful. We stayed for one night before our morning flight and it fits this purpose really well.
Bin
Reviewed November 1, 2026Reviewed November 1, 2026
A temple that’s over 1,000 years old, nestled in Koyasan. This was the most beautiful, memorable and spiritual experience in all of my adventures in Japan. I had a quiet suite to myself, with a private bath & an incredible view. Worth every yen. Buddhist vegetarian meals were among the best I’ve had in Japan - and I love meat. Morning service with the resident monks is an experience that I’ll never forget. As this is a temple, please be mindful of noise & respect the curfew; also, do not take...
A temple that’s over 1,000 years old, nestled in Koyasan. This was the most beautiful, memorable and spiritual experience in all of my adventures in Japan. I had a quiet suite to myself, with a private bath & an incredible view. Worth every yen. Buddhist vegetarian meals were among the best I’ve had in Japan - and I love meat. Morning service with the resident monks is an experience that I’ll never forget. As this is a temple, please be mindful of noise & respect the curfew; also, do not take...
Brian
Reviewed November 12, 2026Reviewed November 12, 2026
The monks were very friendly and helpful and everything was well coordinated so you knew what to expect. We really enjoyed our stay and wish to have been able to stay longer.
The monks were very friendly and helpful and everything was well coordinated so you knew what to expect. We really enjoyed our stay and wish to have been able to stay longer.
Anonymous traveler
Reviewed September 11, 2019Reviewed September 11, 2019
We had a wonderful stay at Asahikan. The hosts were exceptional and made delicious and abundant meals for us, were super friendly and helpful, and gave us many suggestions on things to see and do in the area. We highly recommend Asahikan and definitely would return.
We had a wonderful stay at Asahikan. The hosts were exceptional and made delicious and abundant meals for us, were super friendly and helpful, and gave us many suggestions on things to see and do in the area. We highly recommend Asahikan and definitely would return.
Beautiful hotel, the monks attending are really nice, definitely go to the morning ceremony, it is worth it. This is near everything and very centric to all the landmarks nearby. The "beds" are pretty hard since its traditional, but its manageable for a night or two. Meals were really good, definitely don't skip them and take the chance to eat traditional monk meals.
Beautiful hotel, the monks attending are really nice, definitely go to the morning ceremony, it is worth it. This is near everything and very centric to all the landmarks nearby. The "beds" are pretty hard since its traditional, but its manageable for a night or two. Meals were really good, definitely don't skip them and take the chance to eat traditional monk meals.
Daniel
Reviewed November 6, 2025Reviewed November 6, 2025
From the very first time we arrived in Asuka, on to the house. We were surprised by it's magic. The village is so serene, near by all the amenities we needed from walking distance to restaurants, grocery store, and train station. The house itself is absolutely magical. It's like a fairy tail. We arrived right when the autumn color burst out their magnificent red, orange, and gold. This place is even better because the hosts, the elderly couple who take cared of us while we were there were the...
From the very first time we arrived in Asuka, on to the house. We were surprised by it's magic. The village is so serene, near by all the amenities we needed from walking distance to restaurants, grocery store, and train station. The house itself is absolutely magical. It's like a fairy tail. We arrived right when the autumn color burst out their magnificent red, orange, and gold. This place is even better because the hosts, the elderly couple who take cared of us while we were there were the...
Curtis
Reviewed December 5, 2025Reviewed December 5, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A Truly Magical and Unforgettable Experience!
This was one of the highlights of our Japan adventure! Such a magical place, with a beautiful temple and an authentic Japanese atmosphere. Our room was very comfortable, with our own shower and toilet, and the food was absolutely outstanding!
The location is fantastic, within walking distance of some of the most beautiful temples. Everything was spotless and so well organised, and the staff went above and beyond to make our stay special.
We...
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A Truly Magical and Unforgettable Experience!
This was one of the highlights of our Japan adventure! Such a magical place, with a beautiful temple and an authentic Japanese atmosphere. Our room was very comfortable, with our own shower and toilet, and the food was absolutely outstanding!
The location is fantastic, within walking distance of some of the most beautiful temples. Everything was spotless and so well organised, and the staff went above and beyond to make our stay special.
We...
For an European, this was like visiting the ISS. Barefoot, tatami dinner, shared bath where i was alone, night curfew which felt like sleeping in a medieval fort, morning prayer and tatami breakfast again. Plus the abundance of history all around.
For an European, this was like visiting the ISS. Barefoot, tatami dinner, shared bath where i was alone, night curfew which felt like sleeping in a medieval fort, morning prayer and tatami breakfast again. Plus the abundance of history all around.
The experience of staying there was deeply meaningful. I am so grateful to have been given the opportunity to learn about Esoteric Buddhism from the monks there.
The experience of staying there was deeply meaningful. I am so grateful to have been given the opportunity to learn about Esoteric Buddhism from the monks there.
It was a great stay in a good location. The bedroom was a good size, and they provided everything you need to stay. I didn't have any issues at any point, and they told me everything I need to know in their messages. The only possible flaw is that no staff stays there, so if there was an issue it may take time for it be resolved.
It was a great stay in a good location. The bedroom was a good size, and they provided everything you need to stay. I didn't have any issues at any point, and they told me everything I need to know in their messages. The only possible flaw is that no staff stays there, so if there was an issue it may take time for it be resolved.
Nivek
Reviewed October 27, 2026Reviewed October 27, 2026
Very nice breakfast included with a bay view. Rooms are very spacious and comfortable. Free shuttle in the morning to KIX was also nice. Would definitely stay there again next time when visiting KIX
Very nice breakfast included with a bay view. Rooms are very spacious and comfortable. Free shuttle in the morning to KIX was also nice. Would definitely stay there again next time when visiting KIX
Lily
Reviewed November 20, 2023Reviewed November 20, 2023
Cultural Immersion: Experience a unique temple stay at Koyasan Rengejoin, surrounded by tranquility and spirituality.
Historical Landmarks: Explore the renowned Okunoin Temple and the historic temples of Koyasan that showcase Japan's rich heritage.
Stunning Natural Beauty: Enjoy outdoor adventures amidst breathtaking landscapes, including the majestic Mount Koya.
Relaxation and Wellness: Indulge in body treatments and hot spring facilities available at various accommodations.
Local Hospitality: Engage with friendly locals who enhance your journey and provide insights into the culture.
Find great hotels near Koya
Discover a range of accommodation options in Koya, Wakayama Prefecture, from inviting hotels to cozy guesthouses. Perfect for both leisure and business travelers, many lodgings offer hot spring facilities and spa-themed experiences. Whether you’re visiting Koyasan University or exploring the serene Koyasan Temple, you’ll find the best hotels tailored to enhance your stay in this tranquil part of Japan.
Kansai Airport Washington Hotel: This 3.5-star hotel is ideal for business travelers seeking a convenient and comfortable stay. Located 33.8km from Koya, the Kansai Airport Washington Hotel offers modern amenities tailored for professionals on the go. With spacious rooms equipped with high-speed internet, a business center, and meeting facilities, it caters to all your work needs. After a long day, unwind at their on-site restaurant, which serves a variety of international cuisines, or enjoy a relaxing drink at the bar.
Star Gate Hotel Kansai Airport: A 4-star property located in the city center, Star Gate Hotel is perfect for families and nature enthusiasts. Situated 33.8km from Koya, this hotel features family-friendly amenities such as BedGuards and complimentary cribs for younger guests. Families can explore nearby parks or enjoy the stunning views of the city from the hotel’s observation deck. The hotel also offers a range of dining options, ensuring that both adults and children find something to satisfy their cravings.
HATAGO INN Kansai Airport: Welcoming and inclusive, the 3-star HATAGO INN Kansai Airport is committed to providing a supportive environment for LGBTQIA travelers. Located 33.8km from Koya, this hotel focuses on comfort and community, featuring cozy accommodations and a warm atmosphere. The property is affiliated with LGBTQI travel guides, ensuring that all guests feel at home. With a convenient location and friendly service, it’s an excellent choice for those looking to explore the area while feeling welcomed.
Where to stay near Koya
Koya, located in Wakayama Prefecture, offers a perfect blend of adventure and serenity for travelers. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, visitors can explore cultural landmarks and historical sites that reflect Japan's rich heritage. Nearby attractions like Kyoryu Land add to the excitement, while the tranquil atmosphere invites relaxation. Experience the harmonious blend of nature and culture in Koya, where friendly locals enhance the journey, making it an unforgettable vacation destination.
Kudoyama: Located 8.0km from Koya, Kudoyama offers a charming blend of urban and cultural experiences. Known for its steady stream of visitors throughout the year, particularly peaking in April and during the late summer months, it’s a great destination for families and business travelers alike. Explore the vibrant shopping area and public market where you can indulge in local delicacies. Don’t miss the historic landmarks and places of worship nestled in the surrounding mountains, which provide a serene backdrop for your visit.
Nosegawa: Just 9.7km away from Koya, Nosegawa is a haven for culture enthusiasts and adventure seekers. With seasonal visitor peaks in April and the summer months, this city attracts those looking to immerse themselves in nature and local traditions. Enjoy the various shops and stores, and make sure to experience the rejuvenating onsen and hot springs that are a highlight of the area. The tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty make it an ideal spot for outdoor adventures, whether it's hiking or simply enjoying the scenery.
Hashimoto: Located 11.3km from Koya, Hashimoto invites you to explore its outdoor adventures and family-friendly attractions. With steady visitor numbers, particularly in spring and summer, the city features shopping areas and educational venues, along with a fun water park for families. Nearby mountains and onsen provide additional opportunities for relaxation and exploration. The blend of adventure and culture makes Hashimoto a delightful stop on your journey.
Things to do near Koya
Koya offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty, making it an ideal vacation spot. Visitors can explore shopping areas, enjoy body treatments, and discover unique stores. Additionally, Koya is rich in cultural experiences, featuring various attractions, theme parks, and dance performances, all set against a stunning natural backdrop for unforgettable outdoor experiences.
Relax at Spa World, a rejuvenating body treatment venue that offers a tranquil atmosphere perfect for unwinding. For sports enthusiasts, Yanmar Stadium Nagai provides an energetic vibe with various sporting events. Enjoy live performances at Zepp Namba Osaka Music Hall, where entertainment and music come alive.
Adventure
The Yamanobe-no-michi Trail, located 43.5km from Koya, offers a breathtaking hiking experience through lush landscapes and historic sites. Meanwhile, the refreshing Nonaka-no Shimizu Spring, also 43.5km away, invites you to enjoy its pristine waters, perfect for relaxation after your adventures.
Nightlife
Koya offers a unique nightlife experience with nearby attractions like Misato Observatory, 17.7km away, known for its family-friendly entertainment. Kaizuka Municipal Zembei Land Observatory, 27.4km from Koya, also provides engaging activities. For a broader view, Harukas 300, 48.3km away, combines excitement with family vibes.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.
Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Koya
To save money during your visit to Koya, take advantage of free attractions like Mount Koyasan and the town's open access. For transportation, use the train and bus systems, which are reasonably priced. Plan your trip between January to February or September for lower accommodation rates, and book about a month in advance for the best deals. Check Expedia for last-minute offers and consider combining your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Remember, Wednesday is typically the cheapest day to stay, while Saturday is the priciest.
The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Koya are January to February and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April, August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Koya is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Koya is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Koya is Saturday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodations currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Koya hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Koya
Koya, located in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore its renowned attractions, including the Okunoin Temple, the temples of Koyasan, and the majestic Mount Koya. A unique highlight is the opportunity to participate in a temple stay at Koyasan Rengejoin, immersing yourself in the tranquil surroundings. Whether you're seeking spirituality or scenic beauty, Koya promises a memorable getaway.
Mount Koyasan: Experience breathtaking views and outdoor adventures at Mount Koyasan, a sacred mountain that offers tranquility and stunning natural scenery. Hiking trails wind through lush forests, allowing you to connect with nature and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Kongobuji Temple: Immerse yourself in Japanese culture at Kongobuji Temple, the head temple of Shingon Buddhism. Explore its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture, while learning about its rich history and spiritual significance.
Koyasan University: Visit Koyasan University, a historic institution that embodies the essence of Japanese education and culture. Wander through its charming campus, and appreciate the blend of tradition and modernity that characterizes this unique university.
Best time to go to Koya
The best time to visit Koya can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Koya falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Koya falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
Calendar Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing
January
37.6°F (3.1°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Slightly Low
February
39.6°F (4.2°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly Low
March
46.4°F (8.0°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Average
April
55.0°F (12.8°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly High
May
63.9°F (17.7°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
June
70.3°F (21.3°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
July
77.7°F (25.4°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
August
79.7°F (26.5°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly High
September
72.9°F (22.7°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Slightly Low
October
62.1°F (16.7°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly Low
Average
November
52.3°F (11.3°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly Low
Average
December
41.9°F (5.5°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly Low
Slightly High
The nearest major airports for your trip to Koya
When planning your trip to Koya, Wakayama Prefecture, you can fly into two major airports. Kansai International Airport (KIX) is situated 40.2km away, with nearby accommodations like the 4-star Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, just 161m from the terminal, offering convenient access. It’s also close to the 4-star Star Gate Hotel Kansai Airport, 6.4km away. Alternatively, Kobe Airport (UKB) is located 56.3km from Koya, where you can find the 5-star ANA Crowne Plaza Kobe, 8.0km from the airport, providing various transportation options. The Kobe Portopia Hotel, a 4.5-star option, is just 3.2km from Kobe Airport, ensuring easy access for travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the top vacation rental that Koya has to offer?
Kotorian: This vacation home rental outside of Koya is located in the historical district and has a fireplace, a private balcony, and a barbecue grill to put you at ease in your new surroundings. It has 3 bedrooms as well as a kitchen with a full-sized fridge, a stovetop, and a microwave, so you can cook with friends or family. It offers a terrace, a private yard, and a selection of games so you can immerse yourself in your vacation. See all vacation rentals in Koya.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Koya, will I receive a refund?
Yes! Most hotel room reservations are fully refundable if cancelled prior to the hotel's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. If you have a non-refundable reservation, you may still be able to cancel and get a refund within 24 hours of booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Koya.
Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip to Koya?
To access more information about updating your trip to Koya or cancelling it, click here.
What's the best place to stay close to Mount Koyasan?
Koyasan Syukubo Ekoin is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveler data, and this 3-star guesthouse offers free parking and free WiFi. It's located 1.6 mi (2.5 km) from Mount Koyasan. Other good options within a few miles include Koyasan Syukubou Fudouin and Kongo Sanmaiin.
What about the best place to stay near Okunoin Temple?
One of the top choices for your stay is Koyasan Syukubo Ekoin, located a short 0.9 mi (1.5 km) from Okunoin Temple, and this 3-star guesthouse offers free parking and free WiFi. Koyasan Sekishoin and Koyasan Syukubo Kumagaiji are other good choices nearby.
What's the best part of Koya for seeing the sights?
Ito is a popular part of the city for sightseeing so consider a stop by Mount Koyasan, Koyasan Daishi Kyokai, and Kongobuji Temple while you're exploring the neighborhood.
What is the best hotel near Kansai International Airport (KIX)?
Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport is a popular 4-star hotel featuring 4 restaurants and free WiFi. It's located a short 0.1 mi (0.2 km) from Kansai Intl. Airport. Another good choice close to the airport is First Cabin Kansai-Airport, located just 0.1 mi (0.2 km) away.
What's it like to stay in Koya?
Visitors to Koya are sure to enjoy the temples, gardens, and local tours. Tourists can also enjoy the city's monuments and coffeehouses. In Koya, there are 29 hotels and other accommodations to choose from. Find out more about Koya.
If you want to venture outside of the area, ride aboard one of the trains from Gokurakubashi station.
What's the seasonal weather like in Koya?
The hottest months are usually August and July with an average temp of 75°F, while the coldest months are January and February with an average of 41°F. The rainiest months in Koya are June, July, September, and October, with each month seeing an average of 10 inches of rainfall.