Mount Koya, Japan

Mount Koya, widely regarded as one of Japan's most sacred Buddhist sites, is where Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism, entered eternal meditation in 835 B.C.

His tomb and remains are still standing; monks who live on the mountain prepare daily meals and dress him in new robes every morning. Although his tomb is not open to the public, it begs the question of whether he is truly in a deep state of everlasting meditation, or if it is all a big fat myth.

On top of the mountain, at the Shukubo Koyasan Eko-in Temple, visitors can stay in traditional Japanese style while also participating in Buddhist morning services, the Goma fire ritual, and meditation sessions with the monks.

Getting there: Via train from Osaka (1.5 hours) or Kyoto (2.5 hours)
Entry fee: ¥1,500 ($14 USD) per adult for a Combination Ticket granting access to all temples