Reviews of 高野山 宿坊 龍泉院 -Koyasan Shukubo Ryusenin- 3 stars

Location, authentic culture, beautiful morning ritual. The food was great too. The monks were so kind.

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

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.

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.

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

The food was delicious and really enjoyed the morning service and being able to participate. Excellent location and appreciate being allowed to leave our luggage the morning we checked out.

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

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!

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.

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.

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 :)

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.

Nothing

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.

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

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

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.

Delicious food, very friendly monks

Nothing

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.