The season inches its way up the mountain slowly, so Koyasan's cherry blossoms appear about a month later than at the foot of the mountain. Prime cherry blossom viewing is from the end of April to early May. Just as the cherry blossoms begin to fade, rhododendron enliven the mountain spring.
		It is about 10 degrees cooler on the mountain than in the valley below. Because of this, Koyasan has earned a reputation as a cool retreat from summer heat. Schools from around Japan take advantage of the mild weather, flocking to Koyasan during late July and August. Their voices echo throughout the town, mingling with the chirping of cicadas. This season is also the peak season for tourists.
		From the middle of August, you can feel autumn approaching. In October, the mountain's fall foliage provide a colorful counterpoint to the town's already photogenic temples. By early November, the first frosts fall forebodingly.
		Mid-December travellers may be able to witness the season's first snowfall. The snow usually remains until February, covering the town in silence.
		The Daimon Two fierce-looking statues guard this monument, which is the main gate to the town.
		The Garan One of the most important places in Koyasan, the Garan religious precincts are comprised of many religious and historical monuments.
		Konpon Daito Kobo Daishi built this towering pagoda as a symbol of Shingon Buddhism. On a breezy day, one can hear the chimes of the bells which are strung from the spire.
		Kondo Also built by Kobo Daishi, this structure is nicknamed the "Kondo," but is actually called the Gyogandou or the Yakushidou.
		The Reihoukan Museum Visitors can view a collection of religious objects d'arte, many of which are Japanese national treasures. The shape of the building imitates the lines of Kyoto's Uji no Byoudouin.
		Kongobuji Temple This is the main headquarters for the Shingon Sect, which has 4,000 temples throughout Japan and more than 10 million followers worldwide. Visitors can see religious artifacts, shoji screen paintings, as well as a beautiful rock garden representing two dragons flying amongst the clouds.
		Daishi Kyokai This building was constructed in 1924, on the 1,100th anniversary of the Kobo Daishi.
		Nyonindou Until 1871 (Meiji era), no women were allowed to enter Koyasan. Up until that time, they were only admitted to Nyonindou, the women's temple. Inside, you can see a picture of the first child born in Koyasan.
		The Tomb of Tokugawa Iemitsu Tokugawa Ieyasu's grandson's remains are interred here.
		Okunoin This is the heart of Koyasan, with its many famous gravesites. In the Takugawa River, which flows through the cemetery, visitors can see wooden talismans specially placed there by the devout.
		The 6 O'clock Bell Near the Garan entrance, this tower was built by Fukushima Masanori to honor deceased parents. The structure later burned to the ground, but his son Masatoshi rebuilt it.