Reihokan Museum
Discover ancient Buddhist sculptures and cultural relics in a serene mountain setting at the Reihokan Museum in Koyasan.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Reihokan Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover ancient Buddhist sculptures and cultural relics in a serene mountain setting at the Reihokan Museum in Koyasan.
"Some of Japan's most beautiful Buddhist sculptures, displayed in an austere and reverent setting. Well worth a visit."
🤫 No Phones Allowed!
Photography is prohibited inside. Be mindful of this rule to avoid suspicion.
🗣️ English Descriptions Limited
Bring a translation app or use provided English pamphlets for better context.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Buddhist Sculptures
Main exhibition halls
Marvel at Japan's most beautiful Buddhist sculptures, displayed in a serene and reverent setting. Get up close to these awe-inspiring pieces.
Historical Scroll Paintings
First room
View impressive scroll paintings, though some are digital reproductions. They offer a glimpse into historical narratives and artistic styles.
Reihokan Museum Gift Shop
Near the entrance
Discover a curated selection of unique offerings, perfect for small gifts or personal mementos. Find treasures without breaking the bank.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Serene Visit
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Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 No Phones Allowed!
Photography is prohibited inside. Be mindful of this rule to avoid suspicion.
🗣️ English Descriptions Limited
Bring a translation app or use provided English pamphlets for better context.
👟 Slippers Provided
Remove outdoor shoes and wear provided slippers to enter the exhibition areas.
☀️ Summer Heat Relief
The outdoor area has vending machines and misting stations, a lifesaver in summer.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 No Phones Allowed!
Photography is prohibited inside. Be mindful of this rule to avoid suspicion.
🗣️ English Descriptions Limited
Bring a translation app or use provided English pamphlets for better context.
👟 Slippers Provided
Remove outdoor shoes and wear provided slippers to enter the exhibition areas.
☀️ Summer Heat Relief
The outdoor area has vending machines and misting stations, a lifesaver in summer.
🎁 Unique Souvenirs
The gift shop offers excellent, reasonably priced items for souvenirs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Reihokan Museum to be a special place with beautiful Buddhist sculptures, though some note the limited English descriptions and the digital nature of some scroll paintings. The serene atmosphere and unique collection are highly praised, making it a worthwhile visit despite a higher price point compared to urban museums.
"It’s not the biggest museum but it’s nice.
I went at 10 AM and only 1 other person was inside so I was able to take my time here.
Take off your out door shoes and put on slippers and you’ll be able to enter in 2 sections where they have scriptures and sculptures that you can see.
It does have English description on most of it so anyone can go.
Knowing Japanese does help because you get more context. They also have a YouTube channel so you can learn about it after as well."
Hiro
"Some of Japan's most beautiful Buddhist sculptures, displayed in an austere and reverent setting. Well worth a visit."
Koei
"i was really moved by the large buddhist sculpture there, and could look at it closely.
however the recreation of the large scroll paintings in the first room was strange, it seems to be digitally printed.
anyway i still recommended it"
ashley yeo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Reihokan Museum is located in Koyasan. From Osaka, take a 2-hour train ride to Koyasan, followed by an uphill journey. Many visitors make it a day trip from Osaka. +1
Yes, Koyasan is accessible by train. The journey typically involves a train from Osaka to Gokurakubashi, followed by a cable car up the mountain.
Many visitors explore Koyasan on foot, taking in the temples and the famous Okunoin cemetery. Consider the local bus system for longer distances. +1
Absolutely! Reihokan Museum is a popular destination for day trips from Osaka, offering a spiritual escape.
The Reihokan Museum is located at 306 Koyasan, Koya-cho, Ito-gun, Wakayama 648-0211, Japan. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Reihokan Museum is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with last admission at 4:30 PM.
General admission is 500 yen. A combined ticket with the Ninnaji Temple garden is 1,100 yen. High school students and younger are free.
Yes, the museum often hosts special exhibitions, such as the spring exhibition 'Animal Motifs from Ninnaji Temple'.
Yes, the Reihokan Museum is open to all visitors, not just those staying at temple lodgings.
Advance booking is generally not required for Reihokan Museum, but it's always a good idea to check their official website for any updates.
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the Reihokan Museum. Visitors are asked not to use their phones for taking pictures.
While photography is restricted inside, the surrounding Koyasan area, including temples and the Okunoin cemetery, offers many beautiful photo opportunities, especially at sunset or when lanterns are lit.
Early morning or late afternoon, especially during sunset, provides beautiful lighting for photographing the temples and natural scenery of Koyasan.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The museum houses a collection of Japanese cultural relics, including Buddhist statues, paintings, scrolls, and other important artifacts.
Most exhibits have limited English descriptions. English pamphlets are sometimes available, and a translation app on your smartphone can be very helpful.
The museum is described as having an austere and reverent setting, contributing to a special and moving experience.
Yes, there are restrooms and a gift shop. The outdoor area also has a break station with vending machines and misting fans for summer.
It houses treasures from the Ninnaji Temple collection and showcases significant cultural and religious artifacts of Koyasan.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the museum itself doesn't have a restaurant, there are dining options available in the Koyasan area, including vegetarian temple cuisine (shojin ryori).
No, food and drinks are not permitted inside the exhibition halls of Reihokan Museum.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more family-friendly approach to Koyasan, consider the temple stay experience, which can offer a glimpse into a different way of life. The outdoor areas around the museum and temples can provide space for children to move around. Remember to bring snacks and water, especially during warmer months, as facilities can be spread out.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Spiritual Seekers
Solo visitors can take their time examining the Buddhist sculptures and historical pieces, using translation apps or pamphlets to gain deeper understanding. The opportunity to disconnect from technology due to the no-photography rule can be a welcome aspect for those seeking mindfulness. Consider a temple stay for an even more immersive spiritual experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts (with caveats)
For those who enjoy capturing details, the museum's gift shop offers unique items that can serve as photographic subjects or inspiration. Remember to respect the museum's rules and focus your photographic endeavors on the breathtaking scenery and architecture outside its walls.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Koyasan: A Spiritual Journey
Beyond the Reihokan Museum, Koyasan offers a unique opportunity to experience temple lodging (shukubo), where you can stay overnight with monks and participate in morning rituals.
When visiting Koyasan, it's recommended to allow ample time to explore its serene atmosphere. Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid larger crowds and fully immerse yourself in the tranquility of this sacred mountain.
The Treasures of Reihokan Museum
In addition to sculptures, the museum displays historical scroll paintings and other artifacts that offer insights into Japanese Buddhist art and history. While some scroll paintings are digital reproductions, they still contribute to the overall narrative. The museum's collection is curated to provide a profound cultural experience, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone interested in Japanese art and spirituality.
+2Despite its relatively modest size, the Reihokan Museum is highly recommended for its unique collection and the contemplative atmosphere it provides. The gift shop offers a good selection of souvenirs, and the museum's location within the spiritual landscape of Koyasan enhances its appeal.
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