Guest Houses in Tsuruoka

Authentic, clean, food was good, hosts were very nice and polite

Clean and comfortable. Host is a wonderful lady and felt so at home with conversation.

Very lovely owner taking care about his private guests. Nice Japanese style house where you can participate in normal life.

I felt like family and yet had all the privacy I required. The Master was gracious to include me in the morning prayers. This stay was the best possible addition to my time on Mt Haguro and learning lore about the spirituality of the Yamabushi and the DewaSanzan. The food was incredible, so healthy and much was grown locally. It was the best place I stayed in my two weeks in Japan.

Staying at Shukubo Daishinbo in Tsuruoka, Japan, was one of the most enriching experiences of my trip. This 350-year-old temple inn, run by a Yamabushi family, offered me a unique opportunity to connect with Japan's spiritual and cultural heritage in a deeply meaningful way. The location of Shukubo Daishinbo couldn't have been more perfect. Nestled at the base of Mount Haguro, it served as an ideal starting point for exploring the sacred Dewa Sanzan mountains. Each morning, I had the chance to participate in the rituals led by the resident Yamabushi, which was both a serene and enlightening experience. The blend of Shinto and Buddhist practices, known as Shugendo, is something I’d never encountered before, and it gave me a new perspective on spirituality and nature. But what truly made my stay unforgettable was the food. The meals at Shukubo Daishinbo were incredible, reflecting the best of Shojin Ryori, the traditional Buddhist cuisine. Each dish was crafted with care, using local, seasonal ingredients, including wild mountain vegetables. The flavors were delicate yet profound, and every bite felt like a celebration of the region's natural bounty. The connection between the food and the surrounding landscape was palpable, making each meal a deeply meditative experience. The peaceful atmosphere of Shukubo Daishinbo, combined with the warmth and hospitality of the hosts, made me feel like I was part of something truly special. Whether it was joining the morning prayers, hiking up Mount Haguro, or simply relaxing in the tranquil surroundings, every moment spent here was nourishing for both my body and soul. If you're looking to immerse yourself in Japan's spiritual traditions or just want to unwind in a serene and beautiful setting, I can't recommend Shukubo Daishinbo highly enough. It’s more than just a place to stay—it’s an experience that will stay with you long after you leave.