Temple stay? Japan ?

Myokenji Temple was built in 1321. It is one of the eight Nichiren sect big temples in Kyoto. Accommodation is limited to women only. Upon entering the shukubo, there was a beautiful bamboo garden. The next morning, I attended the service held in the main hall.

Mii-dera is an ancient temple with a history of over 1,300 years and is the head temple of the Tendaijimon sect. When I entered through the entrance, I found myself in a luxurious space. Although the lodging fees are high, the experience is truly fulfilling.

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.

Takada-Kaikan is a shukubo of Senjuji Temple, the head temple of the Takada sect of Jyodoshinshu Buddhism, which has over 600 temples across the country. You can attend the service at the Mieido Hall, an important cultural property, from 7am.

Ise-Jingu Shrine is the most prestigious of the approximately 80,000 shrines in Japan. Jingu Kaikan is a lodging facility run by the Ise-Jingu Shrine Worship Association. I was guided by the staff of Jingu Kaikan to visit Ise-Jingu Shrine. It was a lot of fun because the staff explained things to me at each location.

This is the main shrine with approximately 2,000 shrines dedicated to Sarutahiko Okami. You can stay overnight at Tsubaki Kaikan, located very close to the shrine.

Taikoji Temple was founded in the 8th century. It is located about a 10-minute walk from Futamigaura, famous for its Meoto Iwa (couple rocks). A youth hostel is run in the temple.I stayed in a 6 tatami Japanese-style room. In front of the window was a small but relaxing garden.

Takayama Zenkoji Temple is a shukubo that was converted from a residence connected to the main hall. If you wish, you can experience copying sutras and meditation. There is morning worship and training that involves feeling your way through pitch-black underground corridors.