Kansai– Temple stay –

A modern building standing next to Nishi-Hongan-ji temple.The room was large and roomy. It was equipped with a TV set, air conditioning, a safe, a refrigerator and a unit bathroom. Yukata robes, bath towels, toothbrushes, razors, etc., are also available. You can freely participate in the morning services.

Honnoji Temple was founded in 1415 and is the head temple of the Hokke sect Honmon school. It is the temple where Oda Nobunaga, one of Japan's most famous warlords, met his end. Hotel Honnoji is located adjacent to the temple grounds. The entrance and lobby incorporate images of the era when Oda Nobunaga was active.

This is a women-only shukubo. You are free to participate in the services and the sermon (about half an hour). If you are alone, you may have to share a room with someone else in the busy season.The room I stayed in faces the garden, which allows you to sit and appreciate the beautiful garden to your heart's content.

The room we stayed in was about 10 tatami mats in size. There was a TV and a fan. Yukata robes were provided. The dinner menu consisted of rice, clear soup, cutlet sashimi, boiled fish, konjac, etc. It's extremely quiet at night. When I looked up at the sky, the stars looked very beautiful.

Myokakuin is a temple located along the approach to Chomeiji Temple, which was founded around the 9th century. Only one group per day can stay. It was a wonderful view with Lake Biwa right in front of us.

Saikyoji Temple is the head temple of the Tendai Shinsei sect. It is said to have been founded by Prince Shotoku (574-622), who spread Buddhism in Japan. There is a youth hostel on the grounds. You can attend morning services and experience zazen and copying sutras.

It was the precinct of Jyochi-in that became the temporary residence for Priest Kobo when he climbed Mount Koya for the first time. The building was nearly new in general, the main hall hasn`t changed. While many Buddha statues were watching, I participated in the morning service in a solemn atmosphere.

This shukubo belongs to Engyo-ji, an old temple founded by Priest Syoku in 966 and is also known as Enryakuji in the West. Shukubo Engyoji-Kaikan is located half way on the approach and you can participate in zazen, shakyo (copying sutra by hand) and a Buddhism sermon. Single person stay is also possible.

This shukubo belongs to Engyoji.It is famous as the place where the movie, "The Last Samurai" was shot. This shukubo, Myoko-in, is located half way on the side approach, and is suitable for a small group.

It was founded by Priest Kobo and was once a residence of the former Emperor Shirakawa. They serve shojin vegetarian cuisine. They conduct religious services early in the morning. Also, there are many cultural assets, including the sliding door picture painted by Ikeno Taiga.