Temple Hotel Matsui-bo

Minobu's prominence began in the late 13th century, when the Buddhist monk Nichiren founded Kuon-ji in 1281, thereby also starting the Nichiren Sect. As the main temple, Kuon-ji attracted pilgrims from all over Japan, some traveling over great distances out of religious adherence. Though not immediately, other temples in the area began opening shukubo to provide shelter for pilgrims.

Matsui-bo was founded in 1364 by Hinaga Shonin. The temple worships Hokushin Myoken Daibosatsu, the Buddhist deity of the North Star and Big Dipper constellation. As for the temple's name, Temple Hotel Matsui-bo after the ancient pine tree at the entrance, making that particular specimen nearly seven centuries old.

Despite being over 660 years old, the temple and shukubo are in fantastic condition. It's quite apparent that the temple undergoes maintenance and renovation, as can be seen with the very modern fixtures like glass sliding doors. Even so, the Temple Hotel Matsui-bo strives to maintain a serene ambiance, just as any fine Buddhist temple would.

The temple's main hall boasts intricate wood carpentry, meticulously carved into ornate contours. The wooden floors are carpeted to help with the comfort of the priests and the worshippers. Both the altar and the prayer dais glimmer with a golden sheen, holding relics and ritual implements used daily.

As for the accommodations, guests will enjoy the modernized take on sukiya-zukuri rooms. The layout and configurations are still very much traditional Japanese, fitted with tatami flooring and equipped with a chabudai table for eating, and futons for sleeping.

There is beauty in simplicity, and in a shukubo, the food is part of the spiritually enriching experience. Meals come in vegetarian or standard options, served as traditional Japanese cuisine. Each dish is prepared by a local cook and made with regional ingredients, ensuring its authenticity. Aside from seasonal pickings, they also incorporate the local specialty yuba, or tofu skin, into the dishes.

Visitors looking for a unique wedding celebration can inquire with the host for a Butsuzen-style ceremony, or a Buddhist-style wedding. They're likely able to refer to a local temple that holds these humble yet fascinating rituals. Likewise, you can also ask if they can arrange an intimate reception meal for your group after the ceremony. Alternatively, they may be able to refer a local establishment instead.

Though not extensively listed on Temple Hotel Matsui-bo's website, the temple does have activities guests can partake in, such as morning prayers. There are plenty of local temples in Minobu as well that offer activities, including Temple Hotel Shimano-bo. These include meditation sessions, sutra chanting, and calligraphy.

The locale also has plenty of outdoor areas to visit, especially the Nichiren Sect's main temple, Kuon-ji. If you'd like to admire the view from the top of Mount Minobu, you nearby ropeway will take you up there. Aside from Minobu itself, the neighboring towns have other attractions and festivals to check out, such as Fujikawa Craft Park, which is home to several museums and hosts local events.