A Shukubo or temple lodge is a way to witness the lives of local monks first-hand, and participate in experiences like daily guided meditation and rituals like Goma. In Japan's spiritual centres - like the mountainous pilgrim town of Koyasan - there are a number of temples that feature accommodation bookable by pilgrims and travellers. The quality of accommodation varies from the most basic, with shared bathroom facilities, to private suites overlooking zen gardens featuring separate bedroom and dining room.
So what is it like to stay at a Shukubo? Well, it is peaceful. The properties are unsurprisingly quiet, and the grounds are generally lovely with Japanese rock gardens and lush vegetation. There are temples and shrines onsite, and the guest rooms are a short distance from the places of worship. There are no TVs here, so there are limited distractions. If you are travelling Japan on a busy itinerary, taking an afternoon to relax in such a setting can be wonderfully restorative and a way to grow personally and/or spiritually if that is part of your Japan journey.
The facilities at a Shukubo temple lodge are limited, but you can expect a guest lounge where you can sit and look at the gardens while drinking tea, and at a few of the more upmarket Shukubo, you can even purchase a glass of wine or beer. Let us qualify this by saying, the selection is limited and this is not like a normal hotel bar situation. You may have the option to choose either white wine or red wine or beer, not specific varietals or brands. Still, it is a nice option to have in such a spiritual place.
The dining at a Shukubo is unique. Only vegetarian 'ryori' cuisine is served, which is surprisingly filling and flavoursome. A two or three course Ryori dinner is served, with an early 5.30pm dining time being the most common. Depending on the property, dinner may be served in a group setting or in a private dining space such as in your suite - as it is on Walk into Luxury's Kii Peninsula journey which includes an overnight stay at Ekoin Temple Lodge in Koyasan.
After a good night's rest on a comfortable Western bed (at Ekoin) - or on a futon at most other temple lodges - you will wake early and have the option to join the morning services. First up is a religious service at the main shrine where offerings are made to the spirit Gods. Next is a Goma Fire Ritual, which a Monk performs for the benefit of individuals, the community and all sentient beings. The fire represents the Buddha's wisdom and the wood symbolises desire - the root of human suffering. As participants pray, the flames are believed to burn away suffering and fulfil wishes. A fee is payable if you wish to make an individual wish during the ceremony.
Following the morning services, breakfast is served around 8.00am. Again, this is a vegetarian affair - a wholesome start to the day. A morning stroll around the beautiful gardens of the temple grounds is recommended to complete your Shukubo experience. It is one we recommend, and sure to be remembered as unique part of your time in Japan.
Walk into Luxury offers private touring in Japan combining authentic experiences with walks and luxury accommodation. Contact us to discuss your Japan journey plans, or you can browse our signature trips below.
