Tourism Mount Koya sites ask visitors not to wear revealing clothing

Mount Koya, the UNESCO-listed Buddhist centre better known as Kōyasan (高野山), is asking visitors to avoid overly revealing clothing as summer approaches, as temple authorities seek to preserve what they describe as the site's dignity and spiritual atmosphere. The mountain complex in Wakayama Prefecture has seen a steady rise in visitors in recent years, both from within Japan and overseas. Tourism has increased noticeably, particularly around major temple areas and pilgrimage routes.


At Kongobuji Temple, signs have been placed near the entrance to Okunoin (奥之院), regarded as the spiritual centre of Koyasan. The notices ask worshippers and tourists to avoid clothing that exposes too much skin. Monks have also started handing out leaflets explaining basic etiquette for visiting sacred sites. The guidance covers behaviour, posture and appropriate dress, among other things. Temple officials say the campaign is not intended to restrict entry. Rather, they say they want visitors, especially those unfamiliar with Buddhist customs, to approach the area with greater respect. The issue becomes more noticeable during the warmer months, when lighter clothing naturally becomes more common.

Yabu Kunihiko, head of the Koyasan Executive Office at Kongobuji Temple, said: "This is a place where anyone is welcome to visit, and that will not change. However, as a matter of mindset when coming here, we ask that visitors conduct themselves with dignity," emphasising that the request reflects long-standing religious values rather than new regulations. [...] Temple authorities note that while visitor numbers have brought renewed attention and economic benefits to the region, they have also created challenges in maintaining traditional etiquette and the sanctity of religious spaces, prompting calls for greater awareness among visitors. Kongobuji Temple has indicated that in cases where attire is deemed inappropriate, staff may respond more firmly, underscoring a growing effort to balance openness with the preservation of cultural and spiritual norms at one of Japan's most iconic pilgrimage destinations.

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My most favourite place in Japan…probably. I've stayed there a few times in the past and the last time I was treated to alarmingly large, ponderous insects ingressing into our shokubu!

I think it's quite right. I don't think you're allowed into the Vatican in a PVC minidress or even shorts so why not a koyasan. Perhaps they could facilitate this modesty rule by having temple yukata they hand out to those sailing a bit too close to the wind.