Izumisano isn’t just about seafood markets and bustling streets; it’s also a surprisingly good place for outdoor adventures. The area’s scenic mountains, especially Mt. Inunaki, offer a peaceful escape for hikers and nature lovers. We’re particularly fond of the Mt. Inunaki Trekking and Goma Prayer Experience in Osaka, which combines stunning autumn foliage with spiritual rituals. But whether you’re after a peaceful walk, a cultural insight, or a challenging trek, Izumisano has a range of options to suit different interests and fitness levels.
For those seeking a balance of outdoor activity and relaxation, the Mt. Inunaki Trekking and Hot Springs in Izumisano, Osaka offers a scenic mountain walk plus a soothing soak in natural hot springs. And if you’re open to a longer, more immersive experience, the Hiking Tour with a Yamabushi in Senshu provides a full-day trek with a Shugendo practitioner, complete with visits to sacred sites and local food. Below is a detailed look at each of these tours to help you choose the best match for your travel style.
1. Mt. Inunaki Trekking and Goma Prayer Experience in Osaka
Starting in mid-November, this tour offers an unforgettable experience amid the fiery colors of autumn on Mt. Inunaki. The mountain, known as one of Japan’s oldest sacred sites, is considered the birthplace of Shugen-do, a mountain ascetic practice. The tour includes hiking up Mt. Inunaki and witnessing a Goma fire ceremony at Shipporyuji Temple, where fire is believed to burn away worldly desires. You can imagine the scenery: trails covered in fallen leaves, crisp air, and the scent of seasonal woods. The 7-hour journey is perfect for those who want a mix of nature, spirituality, and cultural tradition.
The itinerary begins with a 35-minute bus ride from Izumisano station to Mt. Inunaki, where you’ll hike for about three hours. The highlight here is reaching the mountain’s waterfall, a sacred site for practitioners. The second stop, at Shipporyuji Temple, involves a 2-hour Goma ceremony, where you’ll see the sacred fire ritual. This is a rare chance to witness an authentic practice rooted in Shugen-do. The tour concludes with a visit to Inunakiyama Onsen, allowing time for a peaceful soak. With a perfect rating of 5.0 from 7 reviews, it’s clear this experience resonates with those interested in culture and natural beauty.
Bottom Line: An immersive spiritual hike during autumn with a fire ritual that’s ideal for cultural explorers and nature lovers alike.
2. Mt. Inunaki Trekking and Hot Springs in Izumisano, Osaka
At number 2, this tour combines a scenic mountain trek with the relaxing experience of soaking in Inunaki’s hot springs. Starting in mid-November, the vibrant fall colors make for a memorable backdrop as you hike the ancient sacred trail. This tour is slightly more flexible, lasting about 7 hours, and is perfect if you want a full day of outdoor activity topped with some well-deserved R&R.
The hike begins with a 35-minute bus ride to Mt. Inunaki, where you’ll trek for approximately four hours. This mountain, revered as one of Japan’s oldest sacred sites, lets you enjoy the natural beauty and spiritual atmosphere. Following the walk, you’ll visit Shipporyuji Temple, famous for its array of stone pillars and the blend of Shinto and Buddhist influences. The final stop is Fudoguchikan, where you can indulge in the local hot spring onsen, soaking in mineral-rich waters while surrounded by nature. Reviewers note that even on rainy days, the scenery and spiritual ambiance shine through, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a combination of physical activity and relaxation.
Bottom Line: For a well-rounded day combining hiking, cultural sights, and soothing hot springs, this tour offers excellent value and authentic experiences.
3. Osaka Izumisano: Mt. Inunaki Trekking and Goma Prayer
This tour offers a comprehensive half-day journey that fuses mountain trekking with a traditional Goma prayer at Shipporyuji Temple. Priced at $154, it’s slightly more expensive but includes a richly detailed itinerary that emphasizes both physical activity and spiritual practice. You’ll start from Izumisano Station, then travel by trolley to the mountain trail.
The trek lasts about 75 minutes, leading you up to the temple where you’ll participate in a Goma ritual. This fire ceremony involves burning wooden prayers as a way to dispel negative energy and send wishes to the heavens. Afterward, you can unwind in the Fudouguchi-Kan hot springs, enjoying both indoor and outdoor baths. The tour also features traditional dance shows and a scenic photo stop, making it a lively, cultural day out. With a 5-star rating, many visitors appreciate the seamless mix of hiking, spiritual ceremony, and relaxing onsen. It’s particularly suited for those who want a full cultural and outdoor experience without sacrificing comfort.
Bottom Line: A well-organized, culturally rich day that combines spiritual ritual, mountain walking, and relaxation, perfect for curious travelers.
$154 per person
4. Hiking Tour with a Yamabushi in Senshu
For those ready to go all-in on authentic mountain spirituality, the Hiking Tour with a Yamabushi in Senshu takes you on an 11-hour trek led by a real Shugendo practitioner. This tour is the most intensive and immersive of the bunch, with about 4 hours of trekking through Mount Daifuku and visits to sacred Sutra Mounds. It’s ideal for experienced hikers or anyone eager to deepen their understanding of Japan’s spiritual mountain traditions.
The tour includes tasting the rare Kuroushi beef and local seafood, as well as visiting the historic Naniwa Sake Brewery, which dates back to the Edo period. You’ll be transported by private taxi to each site, making logistics much easier for travelers. The trek covers around 9.5 km, combining physical challenge with cultural insight. While it’s the priciest option at over $1,350, it offers a rare chance to combine mountain trekking, spiritual ritual, and local cuisine in a single day. Because it’s a longer tour and requires some fitness, it’s best suited for adventure travelers eager for a truly unique experience.
Bottom Line: An in-depth, full-day expedition into Japan’s spiritual mountain practices, best for seasoned hikers and those with a keen interest in Shugendo.
$1,351.57 per person
How to Choose the Right Hiking and Trekking Tour in Izumisano
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, fitness level, and interest in cultural or spiritual practices. If you want a shorter, spiritually focused day, the Mt. Inunaki Trekking and Goma Prayer offers a deeply authentic ritual with beautiful scenery. For a more relaxed experience with hot springs, the Mt. Inunaki Trekking and Hot Springs** is perfect. Budget travelers should note that these tours are priced around $128-$158, providing good value considering the included transportation, cultural activities, and scenic walking.
If you’re interested in a full culture with multiple activities, then the Osaka Izumisano: Mt. Inunaki Trekking and Goma Prayer balances spiritual experience with sightseeing and hot springs. And for the most dedicated adventurers, the Yamabushi tour provides a rare look into Japan’s mountain ascetic traditions, but requires a good level of fitness and a full day.
Booking early is recommended, especially for tours with limited availability or special seasonal offerings during autumn.
In summary, Izumisano offers a surprisingly diverse range of hiking and trekking options—from sacred mountain rituals and spiritual ceremonies to hot springs and full-day Shugendo expeditions. Whether you’re after a peaceful stroll or an intense cultural challenge, you’ll find something that fits your travel style. So lace up your hiking boots, and don’t delay—these authentic experiences tend to fill up quickly!