Eiheiji Temple - Shinzennoyado Hakujukan

Although it was my first time trying zazen meditation, sutra copying, and morning prayers, the clear guidance helped me ease into everything smoothly. The thoughtfully prepared shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine) was truly delicious and deeply moving. The Room and Facility were also clean and comfortable. I felt refreshed by the soothing atmosphere that embodies the spirit of Japan, and even now after returning home, I still feel renewed.

I stayed on the “Zazen Experience & Early Morning Service Participation” Plan with upgraded premium shojin-ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine) (dinner and breakfast included). Both the zazen session and the early morning service can be arranged individually by applying directly to Eiheiji Temple, but because everything was packaged together, guidance and arrangements were smooth. As a guest privilege, it was also great that we could receive admission tickets to Eiheiji Temple anytime just by asking at the front desk. I also appreciated being able to do sutra copying in a lovely Japanese-style room next to the lobby. The highlight was the shojin-ryori dinner. I was repeatedly amazed that a meal made only with vegetables could be so filling and satisfying. Also, perhaps because it is operated by Fujita Kanko, I was delighted to be able to try Chinzanso’s famous “kome-nasu no shigi-daki,” which has been featured on a radio program—served here as “kome-nasu age-ni.” It lived up to its reputation and was delicious. The bath is not an Onsen, but it was clean, spacious enough, and very satisfying. If you’re staying in the Eiheiji area, I think this is the place to choose. If you plan to join zazen and the morning service, wearing socks is required, and both men and women must wear modest clothing with minimal exposure—please keep this in mind.