The trail typically starts from Jison-in Temple in Kudoyama. You can reach Kudoyama by train from Osaka or other major cities. From Jison-in, the trail begins its ascent towards Koyasan.

Yes, while the main pilgrimage route starts from Kudoyama, there are convenient access points to town along the trail, and the Koyasan Women's Trail offers a different hiking experience around the sacred site.

Many hikers opt for a one-way trek, ending their journey in Koyasan. From Koyasan, you can take a bus or cable car back down to the base.

Once you reach Koyasan, the main hub is easily accessible. You can then use the Nankai Koyasan Cable Car and train system to descend.

Yes, Koyasan has a local bus system that connects various temples and attractions, making it easy to explore after your hike.

The Choishi-Michi Trail itself is a public path and does not require an entrance ticket. However, access to some temples within Koyasan may have separate admission fees.

The trail is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, it's advisable to start early to complete the hike before dusk.

There is no general entrance fee to Koyasan itself, but individual temple grounds and museums within Koyasan may charge admission.

Hiking at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and the lack of lighting on many parts of the trail. Stick to daylight hours.

While not always advertised, local tour operators in the Kudoyama or Koyasan area may offer guided hikes, especially for those interested in the historical and spiritual aspects.

The full Choishi-Michi Trail is approximately 20 km and can take anywhere from 5 to 8 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop.

It's considered a moderate to challenging hike due to its length and elevation gain. The path is well-maintained but can be steep in parts.

Rest stops are limited, especially on the higher sections. It's best to carry your own food and snacks. Some facilities might be available near Jison-in Temple or within Koyasan itself.

You'll experience a mix of forest paths, mountain scenery, and eventually, the serene atmosphere of Koyasan. The views from higher points are particularly rewarding.

Yes, the Koyasan Women's Trail is a separate, approximately 10km loop around the tomb of Kobo Daishi, historically used by women who were once prohibited from entering Mount Koya.

Capture the ancient stone pillars, the lush forest scenery, panoramic views from the mountain peaks, and the majestic temples of Koyasan.

Weekdays and early mornings tend to be less crowded, offering better opportunities for unobstructed photos. Be patient and look for unique angles.

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light for landscape and temple photography. Midday can be harsh but still offers good visibility.

Drone usage is generally restricted in sacred sites and national parks in Japan. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.

A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes and temples, while a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing details. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light shots.