A holy site with 1,200 years of history
The top of this 900 m mountain is the birthplace of Shingon esoteric Buddhism. It has flourished as a sacred place for 1,200 years. There are quite a few temples such as Kongobuji Temple, the head temple of Shingon Sect in this mountain and tombs of historic figures of each era are located in Okunoin. This mountain was designated as World Heritage in 2004.

●Open/[Kongobuji Temple]
8:30-16:30　(Last entry at 16:00)
●Closed/Open all-year round ●Fare/[Kongobuji Temple]
￥500 ●Tel/0736-56-2616（Mt.Koya Tourism Association）

One of the 3 shrines of Kumano along with Hongu and Nachi
The beautiful shrine with brilliant vermilion-lacquered pavilions is said to have been moved to its current location in 128. In the Holy Treasure House within the shrine's grounds, over 1,200 pieces of national treasures and important cultural assets are exhibited. The sacred tree of podocarpus nagi, which is over 1,000 years old, is worshiped by people praying for safety at sea. Nearby is a park with a lot of Chinese atmosphere, built in remembrance of Jofuku, who came from China 2,200 years ago in search of the elixir of life.

●Open/[Shinpoukan]　
9:00-16:00
●Closed/Open all-year round ●Fare/Free ●Tel/0735-22-2533

The main shrine of Kumano faith
Known as one of the Kumano Sanzan, Kumano Hongu Shrine, where a lot of people worship, is the head shrine of Kumano shrines across Japan. The majestic Shaden (main hall) stands in this holy area. This area is likely to be designated as World Heritage "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range and the Cultural Landscapes that Surround Them". The area is also famous for its spas, such as the Kawayu Spa where hot springs come up from the bottom of the river, Yunomine Spa and Watarase Spa.

●Open/8:00-17:00
●Closed/Open all-year round ●Fare/Free(with the exception of Homotsuden which is ￥300) ●Tel/0735-42-0009

Nachi Waterfall with the longest plunge in Japan
Located in the north-east of the well-known Katsuura Spa, Mt. Nachi is a sacred site of Kumano-faith, including Kumano Nachi Shrine that is one of the Kumano Sanzan and Nachisan Seigantoji Temple. The Nachi Fall has the highest direct drop in Japan and the water falling through primeval forest looks divine. This area was designated as World Heritage in 2004.

●Open/8:30-16:30
●Closed/Open all-year round ●Fare/Free(with the exception of Homotsuden which is ￥300) ●Tel/0735-55-0321

The shrine fervently worshiped by the Japanese people
Ise Grand Shrine is one of Japan's oldest shrines with a history of about two thousand years. People have had faith in the shrine for a long time and a lot of worshippers have visited here as "Oisemairi". The shrine is considered as a place where people should visit at least once in their lifetime. Nearby is Okage Yokocho with beautiful streets bustling with tourists.

●Open/5:00-17:30 (vary according to the season)
●Closed/Open all year round ●Fare/Free ●Tel/0596-24-1111

Greatest of Japan's Zen Buddhism
The Eiheiji Temple, founded by Priest Dogen, is the headquarters of the Soto Sect of Buddhism. The temple is surrounded by over 600-year old cedars and is said to be the most prominent place for Zen discipline. Nearby is Ichijodani Asakura Family Site where the whole castle town from the age of provincial wars is buried. (Photo: Chokushimon Gate, provided by Eiheiji)

●Open/8:00-16:30 (differs according to the season)
●Closed/Open all-year round ●Fare/Adults ￥500 ●Tel/0776-63-3102