Tucked away in the misty mountains of Koyasan, this ancient Buddhist temple-turned-guesthouse offers a soul-soothing escape from the modern world.
Our stay at Ekoin Temple was like stepping back in time, complete with tatami mat rooms and vegetarian monks’ meals. We joined in morning chants, tried our hand at Buddhist calligraphy, and explored the eerie yet peaceful Okunoin Cemetery just steps away.
While the accommodations are simple and the Wi-Fi can be spotty, that’s part of the charm. You’re here to unplug and recharge your spirit, not your phone.
The shared bathrooms might be a dealbreaker for some, but they’re impeccably clean.
This place is perfect for curious travelers looking to dive deep into Japanese culture and Buddhism. It’s also great for those seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
However, if you need modern amenities or can’t live without constant internet access, you might want to look elsewhere.
For everyone else, Ekoin offers an unforgettable glimpse into a rarely seen side of Japan.
Key Points
- Koyasan Ekoin Temple is a 1000-year-old Buddhist temple located in Koyasan, Wakayama, Japan, offering traditional Japanese-style accommodations and serene gardens.
- The temple provides opportunities for spiritual engagement, including morning services, Goma fire rituals, and guided meditation sessions.
- Guests can experience traditional Japanese culture through activities like calligraphy and writing Buddhist texts, as well as access hiking trails to nearby sites.
- The temple’s accommodations feature tatami mat flooring, futon bedding, and modern amenities, with vegetarian cuisine and gluten-free options available.
- Ekoin Temple is highly rated for its location, friendly staff, exceptional cleanliness, and opportunities to immerse in Koyasan’s traditions and serene landscapes.
Overview and Location
Nestled in the heart of Koyasan, Wakayama, Japan, the Koyasan Shukubo Ekoin Temple stands as a 1000-year-old bastion of Buddhist spirituality.
Rated an impressive 9.6/10 for location based on 1,481 reviews, the temple offers guests the unique opportunity to enjoy traditional Japanese-style accommodations, a serene garden, and complimentary WiFi.
Its prime location allows easy access to renowned Buddhist sites like the Okunoin Cemetery, Kongobu-ji Temple, and the Ichi-no-Hashi entrance to the Okuno-In Temple, all within a short 10-minute walk.
Travelers seeking a genuine cultural experience in one of Japan’s holiest destinations will find the Koyasan Shukubo Ekoin Temple an ideal choice.
Guest Experiences and Activities
Guests visiting the Koyasan Shukubo Ekoin Temple can partake in a variety of immersive Buddhist experiences.
They can attend morning services, participate in traditional Goma fire rituals, and engage in guided meditation sessions. For those interested in hands-on learning, the temple offers opportunities to practice calligraphy and write Buddhist texts.
Hiking enthusiasts can explore the surrounding area, including the nearby Okunoin Cemetery and Kongobu-ji Temple.
After a day of spiritual and physical exploration, guests can unwind in the temple’s public baths, open in the afternoons and evenings.
With these engaging activities, visitors can fully enjoy the temple’s thousand-year-old Buddhist traditions.
Accommodation Highlights
Accommodations at the Koyasan Shukubo Ekoin Temple feature traditional Japanese-style guest rooms with tatami mat flooring and futon bedding. The rooms come equipped with modern amenities like LCD TVs, while shared bathroom facilities are available.
Guests can enjoy a range of on-site amenities:
- Free parking for those traveling by car.
- Non-smoking rooms to accommodate all guests.
- Family rooms to accommodate groups or families.
- A public bath open from 4 PM to 10 PM and 6 AM to 9 AM.
Meals served at the temple include delicious Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, with gluten-free options available for an additional fee.
Amenities and Facilities
Along With the traditional Japanese-style guest rooms, Koyasan Shukubo Ekoin Temple offers a range of amenities and facilities to enhance the overall experience. Guests can enjoy free parking, non-smoking rooms, family rooms, and access to a public bath open from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM. The temple also provides free WiFi, though the speed may vary. For dining, the temple serves Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, with gluten-free options available for an additional fee.
| Amenities | Availability |
|---|---|
| Public Bath | 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM, 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM |
| Free WiFi | Available |
| Vegetarian Cuisine | Available |
| Gluten-free Options | Additional Fee |
Dining and Cuisine
As guests dine at the Koyasan Shukubo Ekoin Temple, they can savor the temple’s carefully crafted Buddhist vegetarian cuisine.
The meals feature a variety of plant-based dishes, including:
- Seasonal vegetables and tofu prepared in traditional Japanese cooking methods.
- Rice dishes seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices.
- Homemade pickles and fermented condiments to complement the main courses.
- Gluten-free options available for an additional fee to cater to dietary restrictions.
The temple’s culinary team puts great emphasis on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and preparing the meals with mindfulness and attention to detail, ensuring a truly authentic and nourishing dining experience for its guests.
Ratings and Feedback
Koyasan Shukubo Ekoin Temple has earned an impressive overall rating of 9.2 out of 10 based on guest reviews. Guests have highlighted the exceptional quality across key categories, awarding high marks for the friendly staff (9.5), well-maintained facilities (9.3), and exceptional cleanliness (9.5). Comfort (9.3) and value for money (8.3) also received strong scores, though free WiFi (8.5) was slightly less praised. Overall, guests have appreciated the temple’s beautiful grounds, accommodating staff, and unique cultural experiences.
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| Staff | 9.5 |
| Facilities | 9.3 |
| Cleanliness | 9.5 |
Policies and Considerations
Guests interested in staying at Koyasan Shukubo Ekoin Temple should be aware of the property’s policies and considerations.
Check-in is from 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM, and check-out is until 10:00 AM. Cancellation policies vary by accommodation type.
Children aged 6 and above are counted as adults, and no pets are allowed.
Guests are encouraged to travel light due to the steep hills and stairs in the area.
Plus, any dietary restrictions should be communicated in advance for proper meal preparation.
Exploring the Surrounding Area
Situated within the verdant mountains of Wakayama, Koyasan Shukubo Ekoin Temple provides a tranquil base from which to explore the region’s rich religious heritage.
Just a 3-minute walk away, guests can discover the Ichi-no-Hashi entrance to the renowned Okunoin Cemetery, the spiritual heart of Koyasan.
A 10-minute stroll leads to the impressive Kongobu-ji Temple, the head temple of the Shingon sect of Buddhism.
Hikers can venture further afield to the ancient Daimon Gate and Torodo Hall, experiencing Koyasan’s revered sites and stunning natural landscapes.
With the temple’s convenient location, guests can enjoy the area’s centuries-old traditions and serene surroundings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Koyasan Syukubo Ekoin Temple?
The best time to visit is during spring or autumn when the weather is mild and ideal for exploring the temple grounds and hiking in the surrounding area. Crowds are smaller, and the natural scenery is at its most beautiful.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Children Staying at the Temple?
According to the information provided, children aged 6 and above are counted as adults at the temple. There are no specific age restrictions, but guests are encouraged to travel light due to the hilly and stair-filled environment.
Can Guests Bring Their Own Food and Drinks to the Temple?
Guests are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks to the temple. However, they’re encouraged to inform the staff about any dietary restrictions in advance to ensure the temple can accommodate their needs during their stay.
Is It Possible to Extend the Check-Out Time at the Temple?
According to the provided information, the check-out time at this temple is until 10:00 AM. There’s no mention of the possibility to extend the check-out time, so guests should plan to depart by the specified time.
Are There Any Nearby Attractions Other Than the Buddhist Sites Mentioned?
Along With the nearby Buddhist sites, visitors can explore the charming town of Koyasan with its traditional shops, cafes, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. There are also hiking trails and opportunities to experience Japanese cultural activities.
The Sum Up
Ah, the sacred sanctuary of Koyasan! We’ve just returned from a soul-stirring stay at this mountaintop monastery, where ancient traditions and modern comforts blend seamlessly.
Picture yourself waking to the gentle chants of monks, your minimalist tatami room bathed in soft morning light. As you pad through serene gardens and join in centuries-old rituals, you’ll feel the weight of the world melt away. The vegetarian cuisine? A feast for both body and spirit.
This isn’t just a place to rest your head—it’s a journey through time, an immersion in living history. With over a millennium of Buddhist heritage, every corner whispers tales of devotion and enlightenment.
Whether you’re a spiritual seeker or simply in need of a break from the hectic world below, this UNESCO World Heritage site delivers tranquility in spades. Trust me, you’ll leave feeling refreshed, inspired, and maybe even a little bit wiser.
Ready to book your own slice of nirvana? Click the button below to check availability through Booking.com. We use them for all our reservations—it’s free, and their prices are usually spot-on. Happy travels, and may your journey be as enlightening as ours!