Kakurinbo is a historic Buddhist temple guesthouse, or shukubo, located in the foothills of Mt. Fuji and easily accessible from Tokyo. It is one of a number of satellite temples belonging to Kuonji, the head temple and spiritual center of the Buddhist Nichiren Shu sect. At Kakurinbo, we offer a traditional temple environment, exquisite cuisine, a warm welcome, and peace of mind in an area steeped in religious history. Kakurinbo is one of the oldest shukubo in the Minobusan area and one of the very few to have retained its traditional structure and décor. All rooms are separated only by fusuma, a style of sliding door. Fusuma allow for various party sizes to be accommodated by simply opening or closing the doors to adjoining rooms. Kakurinbo is built around an elegant garden and koi pond designed by Muso Kokushi (1275 to 1351), a famed Zen master, calligraphist, poet and landscape gardener. As such, the garden is now recognized as a local cultural asset. A traditional breakfast is served each morning and tea is available throughout the day. A multi-course kaiseki dinner is also available. Minobu is famous for its yuba cuisine and locally grown Akebono soybeans.

Welcome to Kakurinbo, one of the oldest shukubo in the Minobusan area and one of the very few to have retained its traditional structure and décor. The atmosphere at Kakurinbo is a far cry from that of Tokyo and other urban centers. We offer a warm, down-to-earth and home-away-from-home environment but with the exacting service and standards that Japan is so famous for. Our proprietor Junko Higuchi is the wife of the resident priest and an award-winning cook. She is responsible for crafting the exquisite vegetarian meals at Kakurinbo. Our staff members live locally and are well-versed in Minobu culture and tradition. We do our best to accommodate special requests so please do not hesitate to ask.

Kakurinbo is located at the foot of Mt Minobu and only 30 mins by walk from Kuonji, the head temple of Nichiren Shu Buddhism. One of the highlights of a visit to Kuonji is to attend morning prayers, first climbing the 287 stone steps through ancient cedars and the dawn silence. From Kuonji there is a ropeway to Mt Minobu’s summit (1,153m). On a clear day there is a spectacular view of Mt Fuji. On overcast days the cloud cover below the peak can be stunning. There are hiking trails up and down the mountain that are accessible to walkers of all abilities. In the evening guests are encouraged to bathe in Kakurinbo's wine-scented bath, try on one of 10 authentic wedding kimonos and relax with drinks on the outdoor Sakura Terrace. Kakurinbo offers various alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, including an extensive selection of Yamanashi wines and locally produced sake and fruit-based soft drinks. Beverages and desserts can also be ordered to the room. Kakurinbo helps to promote the local arts and crafts industry through its small gift shop. Buddhist paraphernalia is also available.