I came here for the history and the experience of staying in...
I came here for the history and the experience of staying in a monastery/pilgrim lodging, but I left with much more than that, as all the people I met here were wonderful, from fellow travelers to local cafe owners.
One word of advice would be to take your time exploring Oku no In cemetery, as it's worth a good long contemplative walk.
D
Guest review by
Dimitra
Japan
10.0
Thoroughly enjoyed experiencing how the monks live and eat.
Thoroughly enjoyed experiencing how the monks live and eat.
We arrived on a Friday afternoon, wondered into the info centre Saturday & they were very helpful.
Walked through the cemetery & then had lunch in one of the cafes open. Not many open on a Saturday or Sunday.
Sunday a.m we experience the Ceremony half by the Monks in the main temple.
Wouldn’t visit again in the winter as it’s extremely cold.
K
Guest review by
KS Clark
Australia
10.0
Okunoin cemetery --meditative walk-- was lovely.
Okunoin cemetery --meditative walk-- was lovely. Would have enjoyed having more time to visit the town. We only stayed one night (which is good, because it was very expensive). However, the train logistics from Okayama meant that we ararived in Koyasan about 2pm and so had very little time to see it. We left after lunch the following day. Two fuller days and one night would have been ideal.
L
Guest review by
LO Mom
United States
8.0
Staying at the temple was a delightful experience.
Staying at the temple was a delightful experience. The food was different but very good, and we thoroughly enjoyed it. Attending the morning prayer was another highlight, providing a truly memorable experience. The location was excellent, being very close to the bus stop. The staff were extremely nice and accommodating, allowing us to drop off our luggage before the check-in time. Although everything was great, I personally didn't like the heater in the room. I think it uses some kind of oil, and for me personally, the oil smell was a little too strong. Next time, I would prefer a room with an attached washroom. Since it's an old temple, it doesn't have central heating, which is understandable, but it gets a little cold outside of the room when going to use the washrooms. The rooms aren't that comfortable, but we already knew that since we went for the experience, not for comfort. Just wanted to add that!
I
Guest review by
Inderpal
Canada
10.0
Nature and spirituality
Nature and spirituality
We ended our 3 week trip to Japan with 2 nights in Koyasan at a buddhist temple. It was a magical place, completely different from everything we had visited in Japan beforehand.
The temples with their architecture, the local food and the kind locals really made this an unforgettable experience.
On our last day we went for a hike on the Women´s trail, had a great lunch close to the Daimon gate and took a 2h walk through the Okunoin cementary which is one of the most incredible places I have been so far.
Go without any expectations and it will be the a unique experience!
R
Guest review by
Roxana
Spain
10.0
We stayed at the Joki-in temple for 1 night, right in the...
We stayed at the Joki-in temple for 1 night, right in the center, on October 13.
The town was very crowded with foreign tourists - funicular, bus, shrines, parks, restaurants. The various sites are interesting to visit, but you are not alone. On the way back from Daimon gate, we left the main road and walked in the part of the town where people live. We were alone and enjoyed the walk.
We walked to see the Okunoin cemetery at night: there were very few people and it was really interesting. I suppose most tourists just come for the day because of the bedrooms' high prices the well-located temples.
Staying in Koyasan for New Year's Eve was a truly magical experience. The opportunity to witness the solemn prayer ceremony and hear the deep, resonant tones of the temple bell in such a sacred setting was truly unforgettable. The serene ambiance of the temple enveloped me, offering a sense of tranquility and peace that made time seem to stand still. For those seeking a unique and spiritual New Year's Eve, I wholeheartedly recommend Koyasan. Just be sure to book your accommodation well in advance. I love here in Suzumeno🫶🥰😘
Eko-in Temple lodging is a must do. Excellent location to the east of the town opposite the entrance to Oku-no-in Cemetery (recommend the optional evening monks tour). The temple staff were very friendly and informative. The stay included an afternoon meditation session, morning service and the fire ceremony (all a must and a great experience). The delicious evening meal and breakfast were delivered to the room and could be eaten wearing the supplied Yukata. Recommend room with private bathroom.
Of course it’s probably better to stay in a temple while in Koyasan, but this place is a perfect alternative for small budget solo travelers like me. The manager is super nice and gives great advice on what to visit around the area (he speaks English very well too so it’s easy to communicate), the place is clean and you can even lock the door of your capsule bed. I have met very nice people there too so I recommend 100%.
The tranquility and atmosphere of this temple stat was extraordinary. We were so privileged to experience the morning meditation and enjoy the grounds.
The dinner and breakfast was unique and beautifully presented. The taste of each element was exquisite.
We also did a night walk through the cemetery and the village of Mount Koyasan the next day. Thank you for such a serene experience and welcoming us into your temple.
A buddhist temple lodging, very clean, comfortable and safe. Front desk was welcoming and helpful, walked us to room and explained the house rules. At night, very quiet, peaceful for contemplation and can hear the bell at designated time. Morning chanting ceremony before vegetarian breakfast.
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