Japan’s New Gran Tenku Luxury Train Taking You on a 90-Minute Scenic Ride to Mount Kōya’s Sacred Temples and Pilgrimage Routes

Japan, renowned for its cutting-edge technology and rich cultural history, is adding another jewel to its crown of extraordinary travel experiences. This April, the Gran Tenku, a luxury tourist train, will begin running between Osaka and the revered Mount Kōya, offering a unique travel experience that combines Japan’s technological prowess with its deep spiritual heritage. The Gran Tenku will connect Osaka’s Namba Station to Gokurakubashi Station, taking passengers on a scenic 90-minute journey through the picturesque landscapes of Kii Mountain Range, leading to one of Japan’s most sacred and UNESCO-listed pilgrimage sites.

This luxury train ride will be a perfect way for travellers to experience the natural beauty, cultural significance, and spiritual depth of Japan, all while enjoying a seasonal menu on board. The train’s innovative design ensures a comfortable and stylish journey, making it the perfect travel option for those seeking an upscale and memorable trip to Mount Kōya. Once at Gokurakubashi, guests will ascend to the mountain’s peak via a cable car and explore the rich heritage of the Shingon Buddhist temples, the largest cemetery in Japan, and the serene pilgrimage routes that have drawn visitors for centuries.

A Journey to Mount Kōya: Japan’s Spiritual and Cultural Heart

Mount Kōya holds profound spiritual significance in Japan, making it an essential destination for pilgrims and tourists alike. As the centre of Shingon Buddhism, the mountain has been a site of religious reverence since the 9th century. Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism, established a temple on the mountain that continues to serve as the headquarters of the sect. The sacred area, which includes the famous Okunoin Temple, is also home to the largest cemetery in Japan, with over 200,000 graves, including those of notable figures.

The area forms part of UNESCO’s Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes of the Kii Mountain Range, a UNESCO World Heritage site that also includes Fushimi Inari-taisha and the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes. Visitors to Mount Kōya are drawn to the natural beauty, the tranquility, and the spiritual experiences offered by the temples and the surrounding forest.

The Gran Tenku will allow passengers to witness the landscapes that have inspired generations of pilgrims, while also providing a comfortable and unique means of travel. The train’s design offers panoramic views of the countryside, ensuring passengers can enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

What to Expect from the Gran Tenku Train

The Gran Tenku train will start its inaugural service on April 24, 2026, with tickets available for booking from March 24. The train will run two round trips daily, offering morning and afternoon departures from Namba Station. The journey will take approximately 90 minutes, during which passengers will enjoy a seasonal menu offering a range of local dishes, including breakfast, lunch, or afternoon tea, depending on the time of day.

The train’s design reflects Japan’s advanced engineering capabilities, blending high-tech features with traditional aesthetics. The luxury carriage offers a modern interior with comfortable seating and large windows, allowing passengers to enjoy spectacular views of the mountains and forests of the Kii Mountain Range.

The Gran Tenku will make stops at several stations along the way, including Shin-Imamiya, Tengachaya, and Sakaihigashi, giving passengers a chance to experience the sights and sounds of Osaka before heading towards the mountains. The train’s ultra-light aluminum frame and high-resolution tension fabric panels will be used to promote seasonal beauty, displaying vivid images of Japan’s four seasons and iconic tourist attractions along the journey.

At the end of the journey, passengers will disembark at Gokurakubashi Station, where they will transfer to a cable car that will take them up to Mount Kōya, where they can explore the temples, pilgrimage routes, and the serene Okunoin Temple.

Mount Kōya: A Sacred Journey

Upon reaching Mount Kōya, visitors will find a wealth of historical and spiritual attractions. The Okunoin Temple, the most sacred site on Mount Kōya, houses the tomb of Kobo Daishi, the revered monk who brought Shingon Buddhism to Japan. Pilgrims travel from around the world to pay their respects at this hallowed site.

Additionally, visitors can explore the pilgrimage trails that lead through lush forests and peaceful settings. One popular trail, the Fudozaka Trail, starts at Gokurakubashi Station and leads to Fudozaka-guchi Nyonindo temple. From there, visitors can continue on the Women Pilgrims Course, which ends at the entrance of Okunoin. These trails offer a peaceful and reflective way to connect with Japan’s religious heritage while surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

Mount Kōya is also home to several Shukubo (temple lodging) facilities, where visitors can stay overnight in the temples, sleep on futons, and experience the tranquillity of shojin ryori—traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine. Visitors can also participate in morning prayers, immersing themselves in the spiritual atmosphere of this sacred place.

The Gran Tenku Experience: A Luxurious Journey to Japan’s Spiritual Heart

The Gran Tenku train provides a seamless blend of modern luxury and traditional spirituality, offering passengers an unforgettable experience of Japan’s culture and natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking a spiritual retreat or simply looking to explore Japan’s stunning landscapes in comfort, the Gran Tenku offers an exceptional way to experience the sacred pilgrimage routes and Shingon Buddhist temples on Mount Kōya.

The train’s sustainable and innovative design ensures that it not only offers a luxurious travel experience but also promotes eco-friendly tourism. By focusing on reducing its carbon footprint through lightweight materials and efficient transport solutions, the Gran Tenku is a future-ready train that will appeal to tourists seeking a sustainable travel option in Japan.

Why Japan’s New Luxury Tourist Train is a Must-Do

For those looking to explore Japan’s spiritual and natural wonders, the Gran Tenku train offers a unique opportunity. Combining the luxury of a modern train with the spiritual depth of Mount Kōya, this new service is set to attract visitors from across the globe. Whether you’re interested in exploring Shingon Buddhism, trekking along pilgrimage routes, or simply enjoying the stunning views of the Kii Mountain Range, this new luxury train ride promises to be an unforgettable addition to your Japan itinerary.

The Gran Tenku will not only enhance tourism to Mount Kōya but also provide a convenient, luxurious, and eco-friendly way to experience one of Japan’s most spiritually significant destinations.

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