The raised tableland of Koyasan, covered by forest and containing 8 peaks, is a monastic area and home to Shingon Buddhism, an esoteric sect introduced to Japan in 805. Today there are 110 temples and a population of around 7,000 monks. The sect has about 10 million members in total and 4,000 temples in Japan.

The approach by train is wonderful, the tracks pass through steep valleys with mountains on all sides and the final leg is in a vertiginous cable car. Once up top there are a number of fascinating temples to visit including the Okuno-In, where many devout Buddhists have been interred. One of the best things about this whole area is that it is possible to spend a night or two in a temple and experience first hand monastic life. Do take a jumper though as it can get cold at night.