Temple Stays & Monasteries

Mount Minobu, one of Nichiren Buddhism’s sacred mountains, is an interesting place that possesses accommodations for travelers. Kishi-no-bo, a branch temple of Mount Minobu, provides lodging for curious travelers. More than five centuries old, the temple offers an opportunity to experience a unique kind of traditional Japanese hospitality, with staff and services being provided by the resident monks of the area. Guests can engage in activities like observing morning services at temples, physical and spiritual exercises, and arts and crafts, with the guidance of its residents. Visitors can also dine on tastefully crafted meals by the temple’s staff that feature local ingredients. Kishi-no-bo offers a tranquil retreat experience tied to Japanese culture and the natural scenic beauty of Mount Minobu.

Situated north of Kyoto, the town of Ayabe is an idyllic escape surrounded by lush forests and nourished by the Yura River. Shoureki-ji is one of the Buddhist temples of this sleepy paradise, first established in 942, with its current buildings having been constructed or added during the Edo Period. Adapting to the modern world, Shoureki-ji opened as a shukubou for travelers looking to learn and experience the mysteries of Shingon Buddhism. Guests will join activities such as Zazen meditation in the bamboo grove and crafting goshuin stamps for personal use. The cuisine served here is also not limited to non-alcoholic and vegetarian-only options, as they acknowledge and respect the complex cycle of life and the diversity of cultures.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ChHYDuERvVA&

Temple Hotel Habanobo embraces its name and offers itself as a place for endings and beginnings. Surrounded by the mountains of Yamanashi, travelers will find themselves basking in the mystifying beauty of Mother Nature. During your stay, you'll be treated to simple yet stylish accommodations, along with delectable vegetarian shojin ryori. You may also participate in a variety of experiences, including sutra copying and meditation. Aside from Habanobo's rituals and activities, guests are also encouraged to visit the other shrines and temples in Minobu, especially Kuon-ji, the head temple of the Nichiren Sect. So come and enjoy an off-beat yet enriching vacation with Temple Hotel Habanobo, embracing spirituality and reflection.

Though the many wonders of Japanese culture have spread throughout the world in recent years via modern media, some aspects are still shrouded in mystery and mysticism, especially their religion. Travelers who wish to peer through that shroud can learn a lot by lodging at a temple stay when they visit Japan. Temple Hotel Shimano-bo offers a scenic and serene location surrounded by the mountains of Yamanashi, where you can experience a holiday of reflection and spiritual cleansing. Join the monks in activities like chanting and meditation, and dine on carefully prepared Buddhist cuisine prepared by licensed chefs. Yamanashi is also famed for many iconic landmarks, most especially Mount Fuji, so be sure to go out and explore as well.