Luxury sightseeing train from Osaka to Mount Kōya to launch in April

A new way to reach the base of the UNESCO-listed area has been revealed.

The country widely regarded as one of – if not the – best in the world for train transport, has once again unveiled plans to improve its offerings. From April this year, the Gran Tenku train is set to take visitors from buzzy Osaka to the base of the sacred Mount Kōya area, offering a luxury experience to one of the most sacred areas of Japan. 

The latest project from Nankai Electric Railway will be a premium sightseeing experience, taking 90 minutes between Osaka’s Namba Station and Gokurakubashi Station.

What to expect on the Gran Tenku journey

Buzzy Osaka is famous for its street food and casual dining. (Image: Getty/ Mlenny)

Travellers will experience the unique transition from the urban energy of Osaka to the mountainous tranquillity of Mount Kōya, passing through dense residential neighbourhoods, 24 tunnels, Kii River, traditional villages and cedar-filled forests. 

The four-carriage locomotive is swathed in dark red with gold ornamentation and seats just 70 guests. Each of the luxurious carriages (the interiors of which are yet to be revealed) will offer something different, from reclined seats positioned to maximise the views through large windows to a lobby lounge area that will offer seasonal light snacks and coffee for guests to purchase. 

Upon arrival at the base of the mountain, passengers can then transfer to the Nankai Cable Line funicular for the final ascent to Mount Kōya.

Where is Mount Kōya?

Mount Kōya was founded in 816 by the monk Kobo Daishi. (Image: Getty/Imre Cikajlo)

Mount Kōya (Koyasan) is a sacred mountain town located in the Wakayama Prefecture of Japan, south of Osaka and east of Nara. Famed as the 1,200-year-old headquarters of Shingon Buddhism, the 800-metre-high mountain is home to over 100 Buddhist temples and ancient forests. Visitors can stay in overnight temple lodgings (shukubo) – such as Rengejoin Temple and Ekoin Temple – and enjoy vegetarian dishes prepared by monks and morning prayers. A visit to Japan’s largest cemetery, Okunoin, is a must.

When will the train start operating?

The Gran Tenku will begin operation from April 24, 2026, with bookings opening March 24. 

Details

The most beautiful time to visit the town is in autumn. (Image: Getty/Rui T Guedes)

Journey: Osaka’s Namba Station to Gokurakubashi Station. Note that guests will need to purchase a separate ticket for the Nankai Cable Line funicular. 

Service launch date: 24 April, 2026

Ticket pricing: Available from 25 March, 2026

Length of journey: 90 minutes/20 kilometres

Capacity: 70 people

Frequency: Two round-trips daily (except Wednesdays and certain Thursdays). Namba Station: 9am and 12:45pm. Gokurakubashi: 10:46am and 2:58pm.