Japanese Shukubo List for YOU !

Shukubo are traditional lodging facilities at Buddhist temples or Shinto shrines, offering a unique opportunity to experience Japanese spirituality, culture, and cuisine. From meditation (zazen) to shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine), these stays provide a serene escape from modern life. Below is a curated list of notable shukubo across Japan, organized by region, tailored for international travelers seeking authentic experiences.

Kanto Region
(Tokyo and Surroundings)

Shukubo Kakurinbo (Yamanashi)

• Location: Minobu, Yamanashi Prefecture

• Highlights: Historic temple lodging with over 550 years of history. Enjoy seasonal shojin ryori, meditation sessions, and stunning gardens.

• Access: About 15 minutes by bus from Minobu Station.

• Price: From ¥12,000 (with meals).

• Notes: Deep spiritual experience; English support available but limited.

• Booking : Shukubo Kakurinbo

Musashi Mitake Shrine - Komadori Sanso (Tokyo)

• Location: Mt. Mitake, Tokyo

• Highlights: Offers takigyo (waterfall meditation) and mountain worship experiences. Surrounded by lush forests, ideal for nature lovers.

• Access: About 2 hours from Shinjuku (JR train, bus, and cable car).

• Price: From ¥10,500 (B&B) to ¥14,500 (with meals).

• Notes: English support may be limited; booking in advance is recommended.

• Booking : Komadori Sanso 
  

Temple Hotel Shoden-ji (Tokyo)

• Location: Minato-ku, Tokyo

• Highlights: Urban temple stay with modern amenities. Offers zazen and a serene atmosphere in the heart of Tokyo.

• Access: 9-minute walk from Hinode Station (Yurikamome Line).

• Price: From ¥29,250 for 2 adults.

• Notes: Suitable for beginners; English-friendly booking via platforms like Booking.com.

• Booking : Temple Hotel Shoden-ji

Zen & Bed Bogetsu-An (Yamanashi)

• Location: Koshu, Yamanashi (near Mt. Fuji)

• Highlights: Adjacent to Erinji Temple, offering matcha ceremonies, meditation, and shojin ryori. Tatami rooms with a minimalist aesthetic.

• Access: About 1 hour by car from Mt. Fuji area.

• Price: From ¥33,600 for 2 adults.

• Notes: Great for those combining a Fuji trip with a temple stay.
  

• Booking :Zen & Bed Bogetsu-An 

  
  

Kansai Region
(Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Wakayama)

Koyasan - Shojoshinin Temple (Wakayama)

• Location: Koyasan, Wakayama

• Highlights: One of 52 shukubo in Koyasan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Offers shojin ryori, morning prayers, and access to Okunoin cemetery.

• Access: 2.5 hours from Osaka (train and cable car).

• Price: From ¥14,000 (with meals).

• Notes: English guides available; highly recommended for spiritual seekers.

• Booking: Shojoshinin

Chion-in Wajun Kaikan (Kyoto)

• Location: Higashiyama, Kyoto

• Highlights: Modern facilities with a hotel-like atmosphere. Morning rituals (jinchoho-yo) and kaiseki-style meals with Kyoto ingredients.

• Access: 5-minute walk from Chion-in Mae bus stop (from Kyoto Station).

• Price: From ¥12,000 (with meals).

• Notes: Perfect for those wanting comfort with tradition.

• Booking: Wajun Kaikan

Ninnaji Omuro Kaikan (Kyoto)

• Location: Ukyo-ku, Kyoto

• Highlights: World Heritage Site with access to Ninnaji’s imperial gardens. Morning prayers and shojin ryori available.

• Access: 10-minute walk from Omuro-Ninnaji Station (Keifuku Line).

• Price: From ¥10,000 (with meals).

• Notes: Includes temple admission; ideal for history enthusiasts.

• Booking: Ninnaji

Shigisan Gyokuzoin (Nara)

• Location: Shigisan, Nara

• Highlights: Scenic views, shojin ryori, and morning prayers. Solo-friendly with a tranquil setting.

• Access: 30 minutes by car from Nara Station.

• Price: From ¥9,000 (with meals).

• Notes: Great for those exploring Nara’s historic sites.

• Booking : Shigisan Gyokuzoin (Nara)

Chubu Region
(Nagano, Shizuoka)

Zenkoji - Various Shukubo (Nagano)

• Location: Nagano City, Nagano

• Highlights: Over 30 shukubo around Zenkoji Temple. Morning rituals (oasaji) and guided tours by temple staff.

• Access: 10-minute walk from Nagano Station (Shinkansen).

• Price: From ¥7,000 (with meals).

• Notes: English support varies; book through Zenkoji’s official site for guidance.

• Booking : Zenkoji

Takayama Zenkouji (Nagano)

• Location: Takayama, Nagano

• Highlights: Separate from Zenkoji in Nagano City, offering a quieter stay with shojin ryori and temple life immersion.

• Access: 30 minutes by car from Kofu Station.

• Price: From ¥10,000 (with meals).

• Notes: Ideal for those seeking a less touristy experience.
  

• Booking : Takayama Zenkoji

Anzumo Kongouji - Shukubo Seihoin (Nagano)

• Location: Azumino, Nagano

• Highlights: Korean Buddhist temple with natural hot springs and Korean-style meals (meat/seafood included). Modern facilities.

• Access: 12-minute drive from Azumioiwake Station.

• Price: From ¥4,000 (B&B).

• Notes: Unique for its Korean influence; great for diverse culinary experiences.
  

• Booking : Anzumo Kongouji - Shukubo Seihoin

  
  

Tohoku Region
(Aomori)

Ooma Shukubo Fugen-in (Aomori)

• Location: Ooma, Aomori

• Highlights: Northernmost shukubo in Honshu, offering shojin ryori and a peaceful coastal setting.

• Access: 1 hour by car from Shin-Aomori Station.

• Price: From ¥10,000 (with meals).

• Notes: Remote but rewarding for those exploring Tohoku.
  

• Booking : Ooma Shukubo Fugen-in

Kyushu Region
(Nagasaki)

Shukubo Tsushima Seizan-ji (Nagasaki)

• Location: Tsushima, Nagasaki

• Highlights: Overlooks Izuhara port with morning zazen and shojin ryori. Historic temple with sea views.

• Access: 10-minute walk from Izuhara Port.

• Price: From ¥8,000 (with meals).

• Notes: Unique island experience; English support limited.
  

• Booking : Shukubo Tsushima Seizan-ji

Additional Notes

• Booking: Many shukubo require reservations via phone or email, with limited English support. Klook can simplify the process.

• Cultural Etiquette: Respect temple rules (e.g., no loud noises, early bedtime). Morning rituals often start at 6:00 AM.

• Language: Major shukubo in Koyasan and Kyoto offer English guidance, but rural ones may not. Translation apps are recommended.

• Seasonal Considerations: Spring (cherry blossoms) and autumn (fall foliage) are peak seasons; book early.

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