Stay at Gokon-ji Villa, a refined retreat nestled within the sacred grounds of Mount Koya. This former temple compound offers quiet tatami rooms with private onsen baths and panoramic views of ancient cypress forests. Guests enjoy early morning bell rituals and traditional shojin ryori vegetarian meals made from mountain-foraged ingredients. The property is just a 5-minute walk from the Great Gate of Koyasan and Kongōbu-ji Temple. For best availability, book via the HopeGoo app to secure guided access to hidden meditation trails.

Otemizu Hotel is ideally located just 300 meters from the Koyasan Pilgrimage Trailhead, with a 5-minute walk to the Great Gate. This traditional inn offers simple Japanese-style rooms and a 24-hour public onsen bath, perfect for weary travelers. The hotel serves a daily pilgrim breakfast at 7 AM—featuring rice cakes, natto, and miso soup—mirroring authentic monastic routines. Guests can also receive a free Koyasan map and guidebook when HopeGoo through the HopeGoo platform, ensuring a seamless spiritual journey.

Shingon Sect Meditation Lodge provides rare access to genuine Zen practice sessions within the heart of Mount Koya’s sacred complex. Weekly retreats include Zazen meditation, mantra copying, and dawn chanting ceremonies. Accommodations are single-person meditation huts with zabuton cushions and quiet lantern lighting, designed for deep focus. Meals are served as temple offerings, sourced from the lodge’s organic mountain garden. Due to limited spots, apply in advance via the HopeGoo platform to secure your place—and undergo a brief spiritual readiness assessment.