"Two Days of Peace" Koyasan by miketrudeau

We were able to squeeze two days in Koyasan into our all-too-brief eight days in Japan, and it was well worth it. If you are in the area and tire of the big-city bustle of Osaka and the touristic hubbub of Kyoto, just get on a train and head to Koyasan. It's about an hour and a half's train ride from Osaka station, followed by a short cable-car ride and finally a bus ride into town. It's surprisingly inexpensive to get there, as the cable car ticket is usually included with the train ticket price.

Mausoleum in Okuno-In

Koyasan's sights are not especially varied, and as such aren't suited to days of checklist-tourism (if you know what I mean). The main idea here, as I see it, is to simply spend time exploring and soaking up the harmonious vibes. Places like this are good for the soul.
Rent a bike and take it around for the day, looking at the temples and watching the people. Make sure to visit Okuno-In, the buddhist graveyard. Make sure to bring a book or journal (or iPod), because all the shops and restaurants close just after seven o'clock and things quiet down quickly.

• Pros:Very peaceful and serene. Good for the soul.
• Cons:Very quiet, not much to do in the evenings.