Curfew was actually 8pm which meant we couldn't explore the Cemetery as planned. Unfortunately our bathing experience was not relaxing as an elderly lady passed out - I was left supporting her in the hot bath whilst my daughter went to fetch help. No one seemed to understand the severity of the situation. It was a shame that the washing stools and bowls were blue plastic - not very in keeping. Barley pillows were uncomfortable.

This was an authentic Temple stay just as promised. Beautiful quiet spot in Koyasan. Everything was as described. Perfectly presented meals were served in private dining areas for each party staying - around 12 people in total. Food was delicious. Morning ceremony was included and we were encouraged to partake (don't go down in your Yukata though!) Peaceful and contemplative. Would like to have had more time in Koyasan, one night

Stayed in July 2025

We spent one night at Koyasan Shukubo Ryusenin and it was one of the true highlights of our trip to Japan. Staying in a working temple gave us a unique opportunity to slow down, reflect, and experience the calm and spiritual atmosphere of Mount Koya. The rooms are traditional temple style, with tatami floors and sliding doors. While simple, they were very comfortable. Our two rooms were arranged close to each other, just as we had requested. Shared bathrooms and the public bath were clean and well kept. This is not a luxury stay, but rather a quiet and meaningful experience that felt special in every way. Dinner and breakfast were beautifully presented vegetarian meals, full of variety and care. We appreciated the setting and the sense of tradition that came with every part of the stay. Lights out is at ten in the evening, and the temple gates close at nine, which gave us a rare moment to truly rest and disconnect. The morning ceremony at six was deeply moving. The monks prayed for health, happiness, and the souls of loved ones who have passed away. It was peaceful and spiritual, something we will always remember. We also walked through the Okunoin Cemetery, which was an unforgettable experience. The path winds through centuries of moss-covered graves and towering cedar trees, ending at the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi. It was quiet, otherworldly, and one of the most atmospheric places we visited in Japan. The temple provided a parking space for us and offered to hold our luggage before check-in. Communication with the staff was clear, respectful, and kind throughout. This was not just a place to stay, it was a moment of stillness and reflection in our journey. A truly special and authentic part of our trip that we recommend to anyone visiting Koyasan.

Stayed in July 2025

it was a great experience ! Diner and breakfast were fantastic, especially the rooms!

Stayed in July 2025

Peaceful location. Very special place and the monks were very friendly and welcoming. The prayer session in the morning was heart fulfilling. Loved it.

Stayed in May 2025

An unique experience in a beautiful setting. We loved the garden. Once in a life-time to experience the morning ceremony and to have the meals in the dining room. Thank you for being so welcoming!

Stayed in May 2025

Would recommend highly as a temple stay but guests need to be aware it’s shared onsen (separated into male and female) bathing facilities only, no showers available.

It was a true temple stay and quite traditional so a great experience to remember. The rooms were quite spacious and comfortable including cushions and low table to sit at as well as comfy lounge chairs and coffee table for sitting options. When we went to dinner the monks came in and prepared the futons for the night and when we went to breakfast they came in and packed up bedding to return room to day configuration. The meals were beautiful vegetarian cuisine, nutritious and beautifully presented in private dining rooms, both dinner and breakfast. We went to the early morning prayer ceremony which was a lovely experience. Just 6 or 7 couples where we listened to chanting and the monks prayed for the wellbeing of the world.

Stayed in November 2024

The place is very impressive and it's a unique experience. The staff is very kind and attentive, the place itself is also very beautiful and kept well. The location is also great usually as there's a bus stop right at it (was in repairs when we came though, but still not far from the next stop as well). The food in the morning and dinner were really great in our opinion, and we got the room for ourselves only for eating which was very nice and fun. The rooms for sleeping are also superb, very comfortable and great. The onsen was also very nice :)

Stayed in October 2024

Nothing

The prayer ceremony was a very special experience. The rooms were special, especially the dining rooms. The gardens and property itself were exceptional and it was a privilege to stay in such holy surroundings.

Stayed in October 2024

The pillows were very hard and there was no private toilet in the room.

The temple lodging was impeccably clean and the rooms were spacious. The monks were very accommodating and helpful. The vegetarian breakfast and dinner were very good and we loved having our own separate dining room to eat. The onsen was very nice and relaxing. The Buddhistbservice at 6:00 am was interesting.

Stayed in October 2024

It was a bit expensive for what it was, but makes sense when you think it’s a functioning temple and not a commercial hotel.

Lovely room with a view of the garden, it was a fabulous experience, the food was delicious.

Stayed in October 2024

Nothing

Delicious food, very friendly monks

Stayed in July 2024

Staying in a temple was a great experience. The temple was gorgeous, the monks were welcoming, the food was delicious, and the room was big and comfortable. We were invated to participate in the morning ceromony. I appreciated that they provided explanations afterwards so that we could fully enjoyed it.

Stayed in May 2024

Everything. The temple is very peaceful, beautiful, the room was exactly what I was expecting. Such a great experience. Would come back to stay more days for sure. The monks are very kind and helpful. Love it

Stayed in April 2024

It would be impossible, as a tourist, to have a true monastery experience in an overnight stay, but the beautiful monastery and lovely monks gave us an inkling of what being a monk means. Sleeping and eating on the floor is less comfortable but essential for that experience. Beautiful monastery within walking distance of temples and Okunoin cemetery. Well worth staying overnight to appreciate Koyasan more fully.

Stayed in April 2024

Breakfast was very good delicious vegetarian food

Stayed in April 2024

Nothing. It was all good.

A fascinating experience. The rules and strict timetable were surprisingly comforting. The food was lovely and the morning ceremony was quite mesmerising. Watching snow fall over the garden from our room was a bonus. Highly recommend a garden view room.

Stayed in November 2023

-

Very beautiful and organized accommodation. Room spacious and clean. Very attentive staff. Great meals (breakfast and dinner) carefully prepared.

Stayed in November 2023

Nothing

Beautiful setting and so peaceful. Privilege to be invited to the morning ceremony. Dinner was something that we will remember for ever

Stayed in November 2023

the mattress- the worst we have had! We appreciate this is a monastery and its frugal living, but this was not budget accomodation.We did stay in quite a few traditional Japanese lodges, and the futons generally were quite comfortable. This isn't a 'dont like', but the village has just two cafe/bar/restaraunts open after 7 so dont expect any 'night life' in Koyasan.

Both meals ( breakfast and dinner) were vegetarian, adequate and beautifully presented. We were the only guests, so had a most peaceful few days. The new onson was just superb thanks- no expense spared here. We were quite centrally locates, bus at the entry. The opportunity to join the monks in morning devotions was most appreciated on the first morning.

Stayed in October 2023

The lack of any explanation or translation of the Buddhist morning ceremony and some general background information about the temple.

The welcome we received and the tranquility of the surroundings

Stayed in October 2023

No negatives ok

Good location, helpful and polite attendants, wonderful Monastery stay experience.

Stayed in October 2023

My stay at this hotel in Koyasan, managed by monks, was an unforgettable experience. The monks' hospitality and guidance throughout our stay were exceptional. The private dining in a traditional Japanese setting was exquisite, and the onsen was a relaxing highlight. Participating in the morning prayer provided a unique spiritual connection. The monks' parting gift added a personal touch to our departure. If you seek a remarkable and culturally rich stay in Koyasan, I highly recommend this hotel.

Stayed in September 2023

The futons were not very comfortable. Too thin.

Stayed in July 2023

There is nothing I didn’t like about the property, although I think travellers should be aware of the following: - There are no locks in the rooms; I personally didn’t feel unsafe but some people may feel uncomfortable about it - The meals are traditional Japanese (including breakfast). Temples only serve vegetarian meals. - the monks will tell you when the service will start in the morning. It’s very early in the day, so it’s respectful to be on time and not disturb the prayers. - in general, please remember that this is a temple and not a hotel or a tourist attraction. You should be respectful of the place, and (in my view) gets some info about Japanese culture before coming here. It will be an experience you will value in for a lifetime, if you come with the right mindset :)

This temple really feels magical. The monks were very welcoming and professional. I liked how the temple is not commercial at all, and feels like a very local experience. The rooms are big and comfortable. As a solo female traveller I overall felt safe. The meals (dinner and breakfast) are typical Japanese vegetarian courses, served in very beautiful rooms. The service in the early morning was very interesting and insightful. I appreciated that there were both Japanese visitors and foreign visitors and the monks gave us an explanation in English.

Stayed in August 2023