Shukubo (temple stay)
Although I was expecting an “old and shabby” place as is always the case with temples, the image I expected turned out to be wrong! Although it was not equipped with the latest facilities like a hotel, the rooms were separated by walls and were spacious.
They also had a TV set and a sofa by the window with a view of the garden. There was complimentary tea and sweets. The lavatories were shared but both Japanese style and western style toilets were available. I think it is on the same level as a little old inn. Everything was completely clean and the rooms, the lavatories and the bath were very clean.
Dinner
The meals were delicious and abundant! When I compared them with those served in other shukubo lodgings, the meals in Jyofukuin were cheaper and yet included one more dish and an abundant dessert.
Communication with priest
However, what was most appreciated was the consideration of the priests working at the shukubo. When we arrived at the shukubo, we were guided to the room and tea was served. While we were drinking tea, the shukubo staff gave us some recent information on Mount Koya.
A little before dinner, the priest came to my room and asked me how the day had been. On the second night, I was alone and was bored, so I talked with a priest for about half an hour despite the fact that he was busy.
After dinner, they showed us a movie called “Mount Koya in ancient times.” On the second day, even cups of red tea were brought to our room after breakfast. They were always really polite and considerate when they came to make your futon (mattress and duvet) and bring your meals. I really felt that I was being treated well.
I think this is exactly the simple warmth unique to a temple. I have stayed in other shukubo lodgings and although the facilities were the same, the way people working there were rather businesslike (not bad) and so I could not taste the shukubo atmosphere.
If you really wish to feel such an atmosphere unique to a temple, Jyohukuin is absolutely recommended.
Morning service
The morning service lasts nearly an hour. It was conducted from 6:30 in the main hall, which was utterly dark. I heard the sutra of Shingon esoteric Buddhism for the first time. It is called Syomyo, isn’t it? It sounds beautiful with its slight melody. It was an exotic experience to listen to sutra in the darkness with the light of a lantern.
Although it is small, you will be able to see a nice garden. From a room on the second floor, I was able to see an antique bridge corridor. At night, the corridor is lit in the dark with the priests coming and going to prepare meals. I was so impressed as to shed tears.
Important point
There are a few things that you should note.
There is only one towel and there is no bath towel. If you need another towel after you take a bath, you should bring one.
The room for the religious service and movies is very cold even in April. You should bring a jacket. The guestrooms are warm because of the heaters.
When a group of guests came, the sandals provided in the restrooms became very disorganized. I think “leading a lean and proper daily life” is the essence of staying at a shukubo . So, why don’t we use it with good manners?
