Osaka: Sacred Inunaki Mountain and Shippouryuji Temple Tour

If you’re looking for a day that takes you beyond the typical Osaka city sights and into the peaceful, spiritual corners of Japan, this tour offers a unique blend. For $323 per person, you’ll visit Inunaki Mountain, Japan’s oldest sacred mountain, and enjoy authentic experiences like Buddhist rituals, writing wishes on Ema tablets, and savoring traditional Japanese cuisine. The tour lasts roughly a full day, starting early in the morning, and is perfect for curious travelers eager to explore lesser-trodden paths.

What we love about this experience is the chance to connect with local spirituality through rituals like Goma-Kitou and Ema-kaki—things you won’t easily find on your own. Plus, the chance to sit down to a balanced Japanese meal and participate in craft workshops makes the whole day feel both meaningful and memorable.

A potential consideration is that this tour is quite activity-rich and involves some walking and participation, so it’s best suited for travelers with a good level of mobility and interest in cultural practices. Also, note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to plan your own transportation to the meeting points.

This tour is ideal for those who want an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience that combines spiritual insights, culture, and natural beauty—perfect for curious travelers, culture lovers, and anyone wanting a break from Osaka’s urban buzz.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Spiritual immersion with Buddhist rituals like Goma-Kitou and Ema-kaki.
Authentic Japanese cuisine featuring a traditional balanced meal and matcha dessert.
Hands-on activities including scent making or chocolate crafting, depending on the week.
Visit Japan’s oldest sacred mountain and learn about its significance.
Experience traditional practices in a serene, natural setting away from city noise.
Flexible activities scheduled according to week (odd/even weeks), adding variety on repeat visits.

Planning more time in Izumisano? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

Exploring Inunaki Mountain and Shippouryuji Temple: A Practical Guide

Location and Setting

We start with the location in Kaminogo, a quiet area of Izumisano City near Kansai International Airport. The setting is a peaceful old house surrounded by nature, offering a calm respite from the busy city streets. This proximity to the airport makes it convenient for travelers arriving in Osaka and wanting to squeeze in a meaningful day trip before heading to your hotel or onward journey.

Transportation and Meeting Points

The tour kicks off early at around 8:15 am with convenient pick-up points at Rinku Town Station, Izumisano Station, and Hineno Station. The transport is a small bus driven by monks, which adds to the spiritual atmosphere—imagine riding with a group of like-minded explorers through Japan’s countryside. The bus, marked with “RYO SHIN KAORU,” sets the tone for a day that feels both special and intimate.

Note for travelers: You’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting points as hotel pickup isn’t included. The meeting spots are easy to find, right beside major station exits, with clear signage.

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The Spiritual Heart: Inunaki Mountain and Shippouryuji Temple

The core of the tour is the visit to Inunaki Mountain, one of Japan’s most revered sacred mountains, steeped in history and spiritual significance. Here, you’ll participate in Goma-Kitou, a Buddhist praying ritual involving fire—an ancient practice believed to bring purification and good fortune.

Following that, your guide will lead you through Ema-kaki, the tradition of writing your wishes on small wooden tablets and hanging them at the temple. These rituals are far more than tourist attractions—they’re authentic practices that connect you with Japan’s spiritual heritage.

Cultural and Culinary Experiences

After the rituals, you’ll enjoy a traditional Japanese magowayashii ko gozen meal— a carefully prepared, nutritionally balanced set of dishes that exemplifies Japan’s emphasis on harmony and health. It’s served with green tea and a sweet dessert, allowing you to relax and reflect on the morning’s experiences.

Further, you can visit Kominka Farm, a charming farm with an old-style house, where you’ll take part in one of two activities depending on the week. If it’s an even-numbered week, you’ll learn scent making using Japanese fragrances—an aromatic journey into local traditions. On odd-numbered weeks, you’ll try your hand at organic chocolate making from scratch, a delightful treat for those with a sweet tooth.

Additional Unique Activities and Personal Touches

The activities are designed to be interactive and engaging, offering a break from traditional sightseeing. The smaller group size (up to 24 people) ensures everyone can participate comfortably and ask questions.

Because the activities differ between odd and even weeks, it’s worth checking your schedule before booking. Whether you prefer the soothing art of scenting or the hands-on crafting of chocolate, each week brings a different flavor to the experience.

What Travelers Say

Many reviewers love the authenticity of the rituals, describing the Goma fire ceremony as “meditative and inspiring,” and the Ema writing as a heartfelt tradition. One traveler remarked, “Participating in these rituals made me feel genuinely connected with the Japanese spiritual culture, far from the usual tourist spots.”

The food, they say, is simply delightful—a balanced meal that’s both nourishing and beautifully presented. Visitors also appreciate the small group atmosphere, which fosters a more personal, meaningful experience.

Practical Tips for Your Day

Bring comfortable shoes—there’s some walking, especially around the temple and farm.
Plan your transport to the meeting spots; the tour doesn’t include hotel transfers.
Check the week of your booking—activities vary, so choose based on your interests.
Dress appropriately for the rituals, avoiding sleeveless tops or skirts that might be uncomfortable for temple visits.
Bring a notebook or camera—there are plenty of photo-worthy moments, especially at the shrine and in the natural surroundings.

Duration and Cost Analysis

The tour runs from early morning to early afternoon, giving you a full, immersive experience without taking up your entire day. The price of $323 includes transportation with monks, participation in rituals, meals, and workshops, making it a good value for anyone interested in cultural and spiritual activities.

While it doesn’t include accommodations or flights, the price reflects the quality of the experiences—authentic rituals, quality food, and small-group intimacy. If you’re looking for a meaningful day that combines spirituality, culture, and nature, it’s money well spent.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers with an interest in Japanese culture and spirituality, those wanting to explore beyond the typical tourist trail, or anyone seeking a peaceful retreat into nature. It’s particularly good for curious souls who enjoy participating in local traditions, as well as families with children over three who can engage with the activities.

It’s less suited for travelers seeking lively nightlife or shopping; instead, it offers quiet moments of reflection and learning. Flexible and intimate, it’s a wonderful choice for those who value authentic, hands-on experiences that deepen their understanding of Japan’s spiritual landscape.

FAQs

Is transportation provided to the meeting points?
No, transportation to the meeting spots (Rinku Town, Izumisano, and Hineno Stations) is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer. The meeting locations are conveniently located near station exits.

Are there any age restrictions?
Children under two years old participate free of charge, while those over three are charged the regular fee. Activities are generally suitable for children who can participate in rituals and workshops.

What should I wear for the rituals?
Dressing modestly and comfortably is recommended, especially for temple visits. Avoid sleeveless tops or skirts that might be uncomfortable during temple rituals.

Can I choose which activities to do?
No, the activities differ depending on whether it’s an odd or even week, with scent making available on even weeks and chocolate making on odd weeks. Check your booking date for specifics.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group size and shared activities make it friendly for solo travelers seeking cultural connection.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes a traditional Japanese magowayashii ko gozen meal with green tea and dessert, providing a well-rounded culinary experience.

Do I need to prepare anything special?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera or notebook, and a sense of curiosity. No special preparation is necessary beyond that.

In choosing this tour, you’re opting for a rare chance to step into Japan’s spiritual soul, away from crowded temples and tourist traps. It’s a day of learning, participating, and relaxing amid nature, offering both insight and authenticity. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this experience opens a window into the spiritual heart that quietly beats beneath Japan’s modern veneer.

You can check availability for your dates here: