Hensyokoin
TEL : 0736-56-2124Address : 575 Koyasan, Koya, Ito District, WakayamaAccess : (cable) > “Koyasan” > (bus) > “Rengedani bus stop” > 1 minute walkParking : There is a parking lotTime : Check-in 14:00 Check-out 11:00Room : 35 guest room , max 150 people
Hensyokoin
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.
Shukubo (temple stay)
As it is called “Bekkaku Honzan” (Special Head Temple), it has an atmosphere of tradition. The garden is neat and well maintained trees are planted on the steep slope of the mountains in the back. The greenery gives us relief.
The room was as wide as 10 tatami mats in size and the windows have net screens. However, we did not see any mosquitoes. If you are quiet, you will hear the songs of unfamiliar birds.
The meals, both dinner and breakfast, are served in the room. They serve shojin vegetarian food and the dinner starts from 6:00. It includes a number of dishes. As for me, I especially enjoyed the sesame tofu and cooked vegetables. The meal made me quite full. I had two small bottles of sake , which made me feel good and relaxed.
In addition, they come to setup the futon mattress as well. The room has a TV set. It seemed the lodging was full with guests because of the obon (summer vacation) season, but I did not hear any noise from the other rooms and it was quiet. The door cannot be locked, but there is a safe in which you can put your valuables. A yukata robe, a towel and a toothbrush were provided. Although the bath is not large, you are free to bathe from 16:00 to 21:00.
Morning service
Those who wish can participate in the morning service, which starts from 6:30 and lasts for about 40 minutes, in the main hall. When I went there, those who had bad knees were sitting in chairs. I sat cross-legged from the beginning. Young people were sitting straight (kneeling) “unexpectedly.”
After the service, they guide you around the main hall. I thought it was nice to sometimes stay at this sort of place and enjoy a quiet time.
