Looking for a travel experience that goes beyond sightseeing? A temple stay in Japan offers a rare chance to step into the peaceful world of Buddhist monastic life—and Ekoin Temple in Koyasan is one of the most accessible and authentic options.

Nestled in the misty mountains of Mount Koya (Kōyasan), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ekoin (恵光院) welcomes travelers from around the world to stay in a functioning Buddhist temple, where spiritual practice, mindfulness, and deep tradition come together.

Buddhist monk from Ekoin Temple wearing an orange robe walking through Okunoin Cemetery in Koyasan, Japan

🏯 What Is a Temple Stay in Japan?

Known as shukubo (宿坊), temple lodgings are traditional accommodations within working temples. Guests can:

Stay in serene tatami-style rooms
Wake up to morning prayers and rituals
Dine on shojin ryori – elegant, seasonal Buddhist vegetarian cuisine
Meditate alongside monks and witness spiritual ceremonies

At Ekoin, these experiences are designed with both spiritual authenticity and foreign guest accessibility in mind—making it perfect for first-time temple visitors.

✨ What You’ll Experience at Ekoin Temple

🔥 Goma Fire Ritual

The Goma Fire Ceremony is a mesmerizing esoteric Buddhist ritual where prayers are offered through fire. Visitors can observe or participate, adding their own prayer boards to the ceremony.

🧘 Meditation Sessions

Daily Ajikan meditation (Shingon Buddhist practice) is held in the temple. No prior experience needed—monks provide guidance in English.

🙏 Morning Prayers

Start your day with serene chanting and rituals alongside the temple’s resident monks. It’s a spiritual experience unlike any other in Japan.

🍱 Shojin Ryori (Vegetarian Temple Cuisine)

Ekoin serves exquisite meat-free meals prepared with mindfulness, using seasonal vegetables and traditional Japanese cooking techniques.

🚞 How to Get to Ekoin Temple

Ekoin is located in Koyasan, accessible from Osaka in about 2.5–3 hours via the Nankai Railway and Koyasan Cable Car. Once you arrive, the temple is a short bus or walking distance from the Koyasan Station area.

💡 Travel Tip: If you're visiting Koyasan in winter, be aware that certain mountain routes—like the Koya-Ryujin Skyline—are closed from December 1st to March 31st. Even when roads are open, snow and ice can make the steep, winding mountain roads difficult to drive, especially for those unfamiliar with winter conditions. Always check road status and consider taking public transportation during this season for a safer journey.

🛏️ Book Your Temple Stay at Ekoin

Ready to experience Japan's spiritual side? Book your stay at Ekoin Temple through our affiliate link below. It won’t cost you extra—and helps support Japan Junket.

🔗 Book Your Ekoin Temple Stay Now