TEMPLE HOTEL HABANOBO

Temple Hotel Habanabo's story began in 1280, when it was established by Shijo Kingo Yorikiyo. He was originally a Shijo Nakatsukasa Saburo, a samurai and physician to the Ema Clan. Though Shijo followed Nichiren Buddhism while his lord followed Jodo Buddhism, he was still well-regarded and considered indispensable. During Nichiren Daishonin's final years, Shijo traveled to Minobu and became his attending doctor. It was at that time that he established Shugenin Habanobo, providing a residence for travelers and pilgrims visiting Mount Minobu and Kuon-ji, the head temple of the Nichiren Sect.

Unfortunately, the original Habanobo suffered from fire during the Meiji Era but was soon rebuilt. Another major reconstruction of the main hall was done in 1990.

Part of Temple Hotel Habanobo's name is inspired by its location, which is next to a ravine leading off Mount Minobu. This also grants Habanobo impressive vistas that can be admired from the courtyard and garden.

For its architecture, Habanobo maintains its traditional style, displaying aesthetics such as carved pillars and beams, along with shoin-zukuri and sukiya-zukuri interior spaces. The main hall, despite being rebuilt in 1990, maintained its original architectural style. It was embellished, however, with modern practical elements such as interior lighting that complements the beauty of the prayer hall.

For meals, Temple Hotel Habanobo offers shojin ryori for breakfast and dinner. Drawn from Buddhist beliefs and traditions, this cuisine is entirely vegetarian but also avoids ingredients with strong aromas and flavors. Mealtimes are communal and taken in the dining hall, beginning and ending with a short gesture of gratitude led by the priest.

Guests can choose from a selection of interesting and spiritually enriching activities offered at Temple Hotel Habanobo.

Join in the morning and evening prayers at the main hall, or at one of the nearby temples, such as Kuon-ji. If you're looking to explore the town, guided visits to Kuon-ji and other sacred sites are available for 1,500 JPY (9.83 USD) per group.

Back at the shukubo, guests can also try a variety of experiences that encourage focus and reflection. Shabutsu (image tracing) and shakyo (sutra transcription) are good ways to practice concentration. Meiso (sitting meditation) is also a fantastic way to de-stress and provides a chance for introspection. Even the act of samugyo (cleaning) is considered a way of practicing Buddhism. There's also suigyo (water purification), performed in the courtyard as a way of fostering spiritual cleansing and growth.

For groups, families, and companies looking for a spiritual retreat, Temple Hotel Habanobo can be fully reserved for 80,000 JPY (523 USD). The package includes tours of Mount Minobu guided by the priest, as well as care and meals provided by the head priest and his wife.