Kuroko Michi Trail

At 16 kilometers, this is the shortest route to Koyasan, but also the steepest and most demanding, typically taking around seven hours. It starts at Jofukuji Temple, a few kilometers from Hashimoto Station, and climbs through thick forest and alongside small streams. Historically, this was a working supply route: porters used it to carry rice and provisions up to the mountain monastery complex, since the cold climate and steep terrain made farming nearly impossible at that altitude. Along the way are stone Buddha and Jizo statues, the Ichidaira-bashi suspension bridge, and small waterfalls. Restrooms are limited. Bring enough food and water for the full day.