We loved our stay at Yochi-in Temple. Being able to experience a day in the life of a Buddhist Monk in one of their traditional temples has been a highlight of our trip to Japan. Our host was very informative and we learnt so much about the Buddhist religion and the life of a monk. As I had requested a private toilet, we were lucky enough to have quite a luxurious room, with comfy beds and seperate toilet. I cannot comment on the other accom types, which I believe are simple but very nice too. The experience also included the monks traditional vegetarian breakfast and dinner, which was very different from what we’re used to, but very tasty and substantial. Our host also offered a night tour of Okonoin Cemetery and a morning prayer session, both fantastic experiences. I would highly recommend this experience in the beautiful Buddhist village of Koyasan, if time permits, while visiting Japan.

Sitio precioso, mucha paz, habitación bonita y todo muy limpio. Los monjes muy amables.

Wir haben zwei Nächte Anfang Mai im Tempel Dai'en verbracht. Die Mönche sind sehr freundlich, höflich und hilfsbereit. Mit Japanischkenntnissen oder einem Übersetzer klappt die Kommunikation ganz gut. Das Frühstück und Abendessen (Shojin-ryori) im Gemeinschaftsraum war köstlich. Da es ganztags geregnet hat, haben wir keine Wanderung unternommen und in Ruhe die Zeit im Tempel mit Blick auf den kleinen Innenhof-Garten verbracht. Das Zimmer ist sauber, sehr schön, recht groß und im japanischen Stil. Man schläft auf Futonbetten auf Tatami, die Bettwäsche ist angenehm warm. Es gibt saubere Gemeinschaftstoiletten und ein Onsen. Wir kommen gerne wieder und sind dankbar für diese besondere Erfahrung. Vielen Dank!

A very beautiful classical garden, and an outstanding location among the temples of Takanoyama. The morning class is a unique experience, where you put incense on your hands and feel the chanting ceremony with the host. The tofu at dinner was very authentic, and the meals were not repeated on either day, delicious and generous in portion size. It was very late when we checked in and the host was very patient. Thank you for your hospitality, and for experiencing the quiet beauty of the Zen forest in the Hozen-in Temple! Zhimin

The Kodai Inn in Koyasan is a peaceful and memorable place to stay, offering a real taste of traditional Japanese culture. The temple it’s part of is over 900 years old, originally founded in the 12th century and later rebuilt in the Edo period, keeping its deep spiritual roots intact. As a temple lodging, you sleep in a simple tatami room and enjoy beautifully prepared vegetarian meals (shojin ryori) that are both delicious and thoughtful. One of the most special parts of the stay is joining the monks for early morning prayers—calm, quiet, and really moving. The whole experience, from the food to the rituals, gives you a genuine feel for the spiritual life of Koyasan. It’s a unique and calming getaway that stays with you long after you leave