Fudo-in Temple
Mount Koya

When visiting the holy alpine basin of Mount Koya (or ‘Koya-san’, as it’s known in Japan), we highly recommend that you stay in a Buddhist monastery for an immersive experience. Our favourite of these special guesthouses is Fudo-in Temple, which guarantees a memorable stay.

Thanks to its secluded and peaceful location around 300m away from the main street, you cannot help but feel a spiritual atmosphere here upon arrival. This magical air continues into the traditional walkways and rooms, which are decorated in a simple yet striking manner with tatami mats, sliding ‘shōji’ paper doors and the odd hanging scroll or ‘ikebana’ flower arrangement.

The joy of staying here is embracing certain aspects of a Buddhist monk’s lifestyle yourself, from attending a morning prayer ceremony to taking on their vegetarian diet: fear not, the meditative chanting experience is well-worth the early wake-up and the beautifully presented ‘syojin ryori’ (monk dishes) are more flavoursome and colourful that you would expect!

Soaking in an ‘onsen’ (natural hot spring bath) is another highlight of a stay here, as is relaxing in the manicured Zen gardens surrounded by little else but birdsong, gently flowing rivers and the distant ringing of a temple’s bell. Enveloped within unspoiled scenery, crisp mountain air and bright sunlight, you genuinely feel calm and far removed from your everyday routine: bliss.

Plenty of Mount Koya’s UNESCO-protected cultural sites sit very near to this temple lodging, from the ethereal Okunoin Cemetery with its countless cedar trees and glowing lanterns, to the holy temple complex where Kongobuji Temple and Daito Pagoda stand proud.

A night or two at Fudo-in is bound to be an authentic cultural experience, making it the ideal choice for those looking to get well and truly off the beaten track and gain real insights into this captivating country.

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I can't think of anything that excites a greater sense of childlike wonder than to be in a country where you are ignorant of almost everything.
Bill Bryson

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We really enjoyed the trip and were happy that we squeezed so much into a few short days. The Burmese people were lovely and the sites were fantastic. We really enjoyed the balloon ride and would highly suggest it to others in the future. The trip went super smoothly and a good time plus learning happened for all. Yangon was nice as the Strand was quite amazing and we of course loved the giant gold temple. Many thanks for all of your help and look forward to future travel with you.
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We have just returned back from a wonderful trip. Thank you very much for organising everything. The transfer was excellent – for once they had perfect car seats. The villa was lovely, just what we needed and the hotel had helpfully put us as far away as possible from everyone else. The breakfast buffet was the best I have ever seen – and I am slightly obsessive over breakfast!! There was an incredible choice, something for everyone and so beautifully presented. A real highlight of the trip. Thank you again for sorting everything - and at such short notice!
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Fudo-in Temple Mount Koya

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Fudo-in Temple
Mount Koya