Mount Kōya

Mount Kōya (高野山 kōya san) refers to a mountain in Wakayama Prefecture that houses the headquarters of Shingon Buddhism, founded in 816 by the monk Kūkai (空海), more commonly known as Kōbō Daishi (弘法大師). It is considered a major holy site within Japan and is a popular destination for pilgrims as well as regular tourists.

Mt. Kōya has been designated part of a vast World Heritage Site which also includes Mie's own Kumano Kodō.

Food and Drink

• Buddhist Monk Cuisine (精進料理 shōjin ryōri)

  Eating the purely vegetarian monk food is one of the main events when visiting Mount Koya. The many temples located within the town offer these meals to tourists; though the style is similar each temple has its own unique recipes. Guests who stay overnight at a temple will receive both a kaiseki-style dinner and breakfast comprised of this food, and as is the case with all kaiseki food there will be many small plates presented in a colorful and beautiful manner. The Koyasan tofu available with these meals is particularly well-known.

  Even if you aren't vegetarian, you will likely find yourself enjoying this food.

Nearby

• Kumano Kodō

  The famed old pilgrimage path historically stretched from Mount Kōya to Mie's own Ise Grand Shrine.

• Wakayama

  The prefecture's capital city is nearby, with its castle, ramen, and feline station master.

• Shirahama

  Beaches, onsen, and the world's best panda zoo outside China

• Osaka

  Serves as the gateway to Koyasan

Links

• Mount Koya - Wikitravel
• Kōyasan Tourist and Lodging Assocation - Official page