Kudoyama, Mountain pilgrimage town in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan
Kudoyama is a town in Wakayama Prefecture that spreads along the Kinokawa River valley. Smaller valleys formed by the Fudodani and Nyu Rivers shape the landscape at the base of Mount Koya.
The Sanada clan, led by the warlord Yukimura Sanada, withdrew to Kudoyama after their defeat at the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600. This period of exile shaped the town's past significantly.
Jison-in Temple was founded in 816 and holds the grave of Buddhist master Kukai's mother. The site draws people seeking blessings related to motherhood and family matters.
The Nankai Koya Line connects the town to larger centers. At Hashimoto Station, travelers can transfer to reach surrounding regions.
The Choishimichi path from Kudoyama to the temples of Mount Koya is marked by stone markers placed every 109 meters. This more-than-22-kilometer route guides pilgrims through a traditional pilgrimage trail with centuries of history.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
