🚌 Traveling from Kyoto to Koyasan by Bus – The Convenient Way (2025 Guide)

Planning a trip from Kyoto to the sacred mountaintop town of Koyasan? Most travelers assume train is the only way—but there’s a smooth and direct alternative:

👉 Take the Direct Highway Bus from Kyoto to Koyasan!

This is especially ideal for travelers with luggage, children, or those who prefer to avoid complex train transfers.

✅ Why Take the Bus?

• 🧳 Luggage-friendly – store large bags under the bus
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Great for families – no train platform hopping
• 🔁 No transfers – ride direct from Kyoto to Koyasan
• 📍 Convenient stops – Senjuinbashi and Okunoin-mae
• 🌲 Scenic journey – enjoy mountain views

🗓️ Operating Period (2025)

The Kyoto–Koyasan direct highway bus runs daily from April 11 (Friday) to November 30 (Sunday), 2025.

🕐 Timetable & Duration (as of 2025)

Kyoto → Koyasan:
Departs Kyoto Station (Hachijo Exit) around 7:40 AM
Arrives in Koyasan (Okunoin-mae, Senjuinbashi) ~3 hr 20 min

Koyasan → Kyoto:
Departs Koyasan around 3:40 PM
Board from Okunoin-mae or Koya Keisatsu mae

Note: There is usually only one round trip per day.

🍁 During the autumn foliage season (Oct–Nov), traffic may cause delays. Please plan accordingly.

💴 Fare & Ticket Info

• One-way fare: ¥2,900 (as of 2025)
• IC cards not accepted – use paper ticket or reserve online

Where to buy:

• Keihan Bus Ticket Center (Kyoto Station, Hachijo Exit)
• Book online via Japan Bus Online

📍 Where to Get Off in Koyasan

• Koya Keisatsu mae – Central location, walkable to many temples
• Okunoin-mae – Closest to the famous Okunoin Cemetery

🏠 If you’re staying at Koyasan Guesthouse KOKUU, please get off at “Okunoin-mae” and also board your return bus from the same stop. We are just a short walk away!

🧘 Why You Should Stay Overnight

Technically, a day trip is possible—you’ll arrive around 11:10 AM and need to leave by 3:40 PM. But with only 4 hours, you’ll barely scratch the surface of Koyasan’s spiritual atmosphere.

By staying overnight, you can:

• Join evening or morning temple rituals
• Experience Okunoin in the quiet hours
• Enjoy local vegetarian meals
• Relax and take in the mountain serenity

✨ We strongly recommend an overnight stay to fully appreciate the unique peace and power of Koyasan.

📩 Need Help?

Feel free to contact us at Koyasan Guesthouse KOKUU. We’re happy to help with your bus plans, route questions, or booking tips!