Explore Mt. Ikoma’s sacred slopes, ride Japan’s oldest cable car, and uncover Hozan-ji Temple’s spiritual secrets just 30 minutes from Osaka.
Explore Mt. Ikoma’s sacred slopes, ride Japan’s oldest cable car, and uncover Hozan-ji Temple’s spiritual secrets just 30 minutes from Osaka.
- Ikoma Cable Car - Experience the charm of Japan’s oldest commercial cable car as it gracefully ascends the lush slopes of Mt. Ikoma. This delightful journey links Ikoma Station to Hozan-ji Temple, offering a unique and scenic ride through the mountains with its retro-style cars and breathtaking views. More than just a mode of transport, it forms…
- Ikoma Cable Car - Experience the charm of Japan’s oldest commercial cable car as it gracefully ascends the lush slopes of Mt. Ikoma. This delightful journey links Ikoma Station to Hozan-ji Temple, offering a unique and scenic ride through the mountains with its retro-style cars and breathtaking views. More than just a mode of transport, it forms part of the pilgrimage experience, reminiscent of the path once traveled by monks and devotees.
- Hozan-ji Temple - Nestled on the mountainside, Hozan-ji is a revered site rich in spiritual history. Initially a cave retreat for ascetic monks, the temple was revitalized during the Edo period and became renowned for housing Shōten (Kangiten), the deity of prosperity and good fortune. Its vibrant halls, fragrant incense, and stunning mountain backdrop create a deeply atmospheric place of worship, where the spiritual and physical realms converge. Even today, businesspeople visit, following the tradition of Osaka merchants who once came secretly at night to offer their prayers.

- Scenic ride on Japan’s oldest commercial cable car
- Visit to Oku-no-in (inner sanctuary)
- Guided tour of the temple grounds
- Visit to Hozan-ji Temple
- Scenic ride on Japan’s oldest commercial cable car
- Visit to Oku-no-in (inner sanctuary)
- Guided tour of the temple grounds
- Visit to Hozan-ji Temple
Uncover a hidden spiritual realm just outside the city. This excursion to Hozan-ji Temple immerses you in the sacred slopes of Mt. Ikoma—only 30 minutes from Osaka, yet a world apart in ambiance. You’ll journey on Japan’s oldest commercial cable car, then explore a historic temple celebrated for over a millennium as a center of mountain worship and…
Uncover a hidden spiritual realm just outside the city. This excursion to Hozan-ji Temple immerses you in the sacred slopes of Mt. Ikoma—only 30 minutes from Osaka, yet a world apart in ambiance. You’ll journey on Japan’s oldest commercial cable car, then explore a historic temple celebrated for over a millennium as a center of mountain worship and business success.
Accompanied by an experienced local guide, you’ll tour Hozan-ji’s vibrant halls, discover Shōten, the deity of fortune revered by Osaka merchants, and stroll through the Oku-no-in, a secluded haven of stone Buddhas and ancient caves once frequented by monks. Few international visitors are aware of this place—but those who are, never forget it.
Accessible, enigmatic, and steeped in history, this adventure is ideal for travelers eager to explore Japan’s spiritual essence beyond the typical tourist routes. Come traverse the mountain, inhale the incense, and uncover why this sacred site has attracted worshippers for centuries.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.