From Osaka/Kyoto:Mount Koya, Wakayama & Nachi Waterfall Trip

Discover the captivating wonders of Wakayama on this immersive day trip from Osaka or Kyoto. Explore the sacred Mount Koya, the spiritual heart of Japanese Buddhism, and witness the awe-inspiring Nachi Waterfall, one of the country’s most iconic natural treasures. With a professional guide, flexible scheduling, and a hassle-free booking process, this excursion offers a seamless opportunity to explore the region’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking an unforgettable experience, this journey is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• Comprehensive day trip from Osaka or Kyoto to the Wakayama region, featuring historical and cultural highlights, including Wakayama Castle and Kongobuji Temple.
• Two itinerary options available: one with Nachi Waterfall (currently closed until January 2025) and one without.
• Includes hotel pickup, professional guide, entrance fees, and lunch, but excludes tips and personal expenses.
• Flexible cancellation and pay-later option available, with group size limited to 6 participants for a personalized experience.
• Mixed traveler feedback, highlighting the importance of reviewing inclusions and exclusions to ensure a satisfactory experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

This tour offers a comprehensive day trip from Osaka or Kyoto to explore the scenic Wakayama region, including the sacred Mount Koya and the breathtaking Nachi Waterfall.

Priced at €562.14 per group (up to 6 participants), it’s a saving of 9% from the original €617.74. The 12-hour excursion features flexible cancellation and a pay-later option.

Guests can choose between two itinerary options: one that excludes Nachi Waterfall or another that includes it.

The tour includes hotel pickup, a professional guide, entrance fees, and lunch, but excludes tips and personal expenses.

Accessibility is limited, as the tour is unsuitable for children under 6, pregnant women, and individuals with mobility issues.

Itinerary Options

Travelers can choose between two distinct itinerary options for this day trip.

The first option excludes a visit to Nachi Waterfall, instead focusing on the historical and cultural highlights of Wakayama and Mount Koya. Visitors will explore Wakayama Castle, the Kongobuji Temple’s rock garden, and the Okunoin Cemetery at Mount Koya.

They’ll also tour the Mount Koya Museum and visit the pirate hideout of Sandanbeki Cave.

The second option includes the stunning Nachi Waterfall, Japan’s tallest single-tier waterfall, though it’s currently closed until January 2025. This itinerary begins at Mount Koya and ends at the impressive Nachi Waterfall.

Option 1: Without Nachi Waterfall

If travelers opt for the first itinerary option, they’ll explore the historical and cultural highlights of Wakayama and Mount Koya, skipping the visit to Nachi Waterfall.

They’ll discover the 16th-century Wakayama Castle, taking in panoramic views from its hilltop perch.

At Mount Koya, they’ll tour the famous Kongobuji Temple, known for its tranquil rock garden, and explore the Shingon Buddhist art and history at the Mount Koya Museum.

The group will also walk through the serene Okunoin Cemetery, Japan’s largest.

Plus, they’ll visit the historical Sandanbeki Cave, once a hideout for pirates.

Option 2: With Nachi Waterfall

For the second itinerary option, travelers start their journey at the UNESCO-listed temples of Mount Koya.

After exploring the historic sites, they visit the 176-year-old market in Mount Koya, browsing local crafts.

The tour then concludes at Japan’s tallest single-tier waterfall, Nachi Waterfall.

Although Nachi Waterfall is currently closed until January 5, 2025, this option provides a comprehensive experience encompassing the spiritual and natural wonders of the region.

Travelers can enjoy the rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes that make this area a renowned destination.

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Transportation and Accessibility

The tour offers pickup locations in Osaka, Nara, and Kyoto, providing convenient transportation options for travelers.

During the excursion, you will be transported by coach, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey.

The group size is limited to 6 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility impairments, as it isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Travelers should communicate any dietary restrictions in advance to ensure their needs are accommodated during the included lunch.

Included and Excluded Services

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide to lead the way, and entrance fees for some of the key sites on the itinerary. Lunch with vegetarian options is also provided. However, tips and personal expenses are excluded. Travelers should communicate any dietary restrictions in advance. The included and excluded services are summarized in the table below:

Included	Excluded
Hotel pickup/drop-off	Tips
Professional guide	Personal expenses
Entrance fees for select sites	–
Lunch with vegetarian options	–

Traveler Experiences and Reviews

According to the available reviews, travelers have provided a mix of feedback on the Mount Koya and Nachi Waterfall trip.

While some praised the courteous and informative guides, as well as the memorable experiences, others expressed dissatisfaction with miscommunication regarding included destinations, extra charges for additional participants, unclear lunch inclusion, and time constraints on the itinerary.

The trip has an average rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars based on 3 reviews.

Travelers are advised to carefully review the inclusions and exclusions, and communicate any dietary restrictions in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Booking and Reservations

Booking and reserving the Mount Koya and Nachi Waterfall trip is straightforward.

Travelers can easily save up to 9% by booking online, with prices starting from €562.14 per group of up to 6 participants. The 12-hour tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the option to reserve now and pay later.

While the tour isn’t suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, the small group size and coach transportation make for a comfortable experience.

Communicating any dietary restrictions in advance ensures a seamless and enjoyable trip.

FAQ

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Mount Koya?

The best time to visit Mount Koya is during the spring or autumn months. The weather’s mild, the scenery’s stunning, and there are fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season. Visitors can fully enjoy the serene atmosphere of this sacred mountain.

Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for the Temples?

There are typically dress code requirements for temple visits in Japan. Visitors should wear modest, conservative clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Hats, shorts, and revealing attire are generally discouraged out of respect for the sacred sites.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes lunch, but travelers with dietary restrictions should communicate them in advance. Bringing extra snacks and water is allowed and recommended, especially for long excursions.

Are Photography and Video Recording Allowed at All Sites?

Photography and video recording are generally allowed at the sites visited on the tour, though visitors should be respectful and follow any specific guidelines or restrictions at each location. It’s best to check with the guide for any site-specific rules.

Do We Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Hike at Mount Koya?

The tour does not require any special equipment for the hike at Mount Koya. Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a water bottle are all that’s needed to explore the temples and cemetery on the mountain.

Sum Up

This captivating day trip from Osaka or Kyoto offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning Wakayama region. Travelers can enjoy Japan’s rich cultural heritage, visiting the iconic Mount Koya and the breathtaking Nachi Waterfall. With flexible options, convenient transportation, and inclusive services, this excursion promises an unforgettable journey through some of Japan’s most captivating landscapes.

You can check if your dates are available here: