Experience Shukubo: Discover Japan's 6 Best Temple Stays, from Famous Monasteries to Secret Retreats
Shukubo, a type of lodging found at Japanese temples and sometimes shrines, are gaining popularity among international travelers seeking unique cultural experiences. Originally established for monks and pilgrims, these facilities now warmly welcome everyone to stay. At a Shukubo, you can delve deep into Japanese spiritual culture through activities like Zazen meditation, Sutra copying, and enjoying healthy, vegetarian Buddhist cuisine known as Shojin Ryori. In this article, 47trip has carefully selected six exceptional temple stays, from the famous holy site of Mt. Koya to incredible hidden gems. Why not take this opportunity to find a moment of peace and quiet self-reflection?
Ekoin Temple (Wakayama Prefecture / Mt. Koya)
Located on Mt. Koya, Eko-in Temple is conveniently situated near the entrance to the Okunoin cemetery, offering excellent access. This popular temple lodging is particularly welcoming to international travelers, providing a deep and authentic experience of Japanese Buddhist culture. In the early morning, guests can participate in "Ajikan" meditation and the powerful "Goma" fire ritual, where prayers are offered before a dramatic blaze. Another highlight is the celebrated "Okunoin Night Tour," led by a monk, which allows you to experience the quiet, mystical atmosphere of the cemetery after dark. The monks are fluent in English and are happy to carefully explain the proper etiquette to beginners, ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone. A visit here promises to be a special experience that will restore both mind and body.
Fukuchi-in Temple (Wakayama Prefecture / Mt. Koya)
Fukuchi-in is a popular temple lodging on Mt. Koya, uniquely known for possessing a natural hot spring (onsen), a true rarity in the area. Another of its main attractions is the three beautiful gardens designed by the famous landscape architect, Shigemori Mirei. During your stay, you can center your mind at the morning service and savor healthy Shojin Ryori cuisine. Afterward, you can soothe your body in the onsen and relax while viewing the modern Zen gardens. This temple offers a luxurious stay that combines traditional Shukubo culture with the modern comforts of a hot spring and art appreciation, providing a deeply fulfilling experience for both mind and body.
Soji-in Temple (Wakayama Prefecture / Mt. Koya)
Soji-in Temple boasts an ideal location for any pilgrimage to Mt. Koya, as it is situated right next to Kongobuji Head Temple and is close to major sacred sites like the Danjo Garan complex. The temple is renowned for its Shojin Ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine), featuring seasonal ingredients. Guests can enjoy a variety of vibrant dishes, with great attention paid to the details of presentation and the choice of tableware. During your stay, you can experience monastic practices, beginning with the morning service, followed by Sutra copying (Shakyo) and Buddhist image tracing (Shabutsu). You can also spend a quiet moment gazing at the beautiful, tranquil Japanese garden, which is home to a magnificent wisteria tree over 1,000 years old.
Chishaku-in Kaikan(Kyoto Prefecture)
Chishaku-in Kaikan offers an authentic temple lodging (Shukubo) experience while being located right in the heart of Kyoto City. Its prime location, just a 10-minute bus ride from Kyoto Station and next to the famous Sanjusangen-do Temple, is ideal for sightseeing in the Higashiyama area. Although it is a Shukubo, the rooms are equipped with private baths and toilets, providing hotel-like comfort for your stay. In the early morning, guests can attend the solemn morning service and the Goma fire ritual, performed before a statue of the deity Fudo Myoo. After experiencing the powerful resonance of sutra chanting and drums up close, you will receive a special protective amulet. Additionally, guests have the privilege of viewing National Treasure screen paintings by Hasegawa Tohaku and his school, as well as a beautiful scenic garden. Combining convenience, deep cultural experiences, and a comfortable stay, this is a highly recommended Shukubo for first-timers.
The Hakujukan hotel of Eiheiji Temple(Fukui Prefecture)
Located at the main gate of Eiheiji, the head temple of the Soto Zen school in Fukui Prefecture, Hakujukan is a new style of accommodation that redefines the traditional image of a Shukubo (temple lodging). It offers a unique blend of hotel-like comforts and services with the opportunity to experience the profound world of Zen through Zazen meditation and authentic Shojin Ryori cuisine. Guests can participate in the solemn morning service and Zazen sessions at Eiheiji Temple itself. Furthermore, a dedicated "Zen Concierge" is on hand to carefully explain the proper etiquette, making it a welcoming place for those new to Zen. At the end of the day, you can slowly soothe your mind and body in the large, aromatic bath.
Gyogakuin Kakurinbo (Yamanashi Prefecture)
Located in Yamanashi Prefecture, Kakurinbo is a temple lodging (Shukubo) of the Nichiren school of Buddhism with a proud 550-year history. It is popular with international travelers as a place where they can connect with traditional Japanese culture. Here, in addition to spiritual practices like Sutra copying, guests can enjoy a diverse range of cultural programs full of discovery and wonder. These include a kimono experience, where you can feel the solemn atmosphere of a traditional Japanese wedding, and a workshop to create your own original Goshuin-cho (temple seal book). A special souvenir unique to this temple is the "Nichō-sui" eye drops, named after Nichō Shōnin, a high-ranking priest known as the "god of the eyes" for having overcome his own blindness.
Summary
A Shukubo is more than just a place to stay. It is a special place where you can experience Japanese history, culture, and spirituality firsthand. From the sacred slopes of Mt. Koya to temples all across the country, why not step away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and spend some time in quiet contemplation? We hope the temple lodgings introduced by 47trip will serve as a reference as you begin to plan your own unique and special trip to Japan.
