Gain insight into the nature, history and culture of the Shikoku Pilgrimage route, a 745-mile long trail associated with the 9th century Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism. Your destination is Mount Koya, the mountain range in Wakayama Prefecture; there are numerous temples and monasteries nestled in the mountains and your first stop is Okunoin Temple. Nestled in a beautiful and peaceful forest surrounded by Japan's largest cemetery, the temple is home to Kobo Daishi's mausoleum. The next site you'll visit is the Kongobuji Temple. Originally built in 1593, it contains many beautiful painted sliding doors and extravagant receiving rooms. Your last sacred site is the Danjo Garan Temple. It was here in 819 that Daishi established this temple as a school of the Shingon sect. There are nearly 20 structures clustered around the striking main pagoda, which serves as the symbol of Mount Koya. Enjoy a tradisional Japanese Buddhist cuisine before returing to the port.