About Ekoin Temple
Ekoin Temple is a temple lodging (shukubo) located on Mount Koya in Wakayama Prefecture. More than just accommodation, it’s a place for many visitors to cultivate their mind and body through authentic Buddhist experience programs such as sutra copying and meditation.
Its appeal lies in the precious experience of savoring vegetarian cuisine in a tranquil environment and immersing oneself in Buddhist culture under the guidance of monks.
Features of the Temple Lodging
Comprehensive Experience Programs
Ekoin Temple offers the following experience programs for its guests:
- Sutra Copying Experience: Quietly copy scriptures such as the Heart Sutra to calm the mind and enhance concentration.
- Meditation/Ajikan Meditation: Experience authentic esoteric Buddhist meditation under the guidance of monks.
- Morning Service: Participate in early morning chanting and begin your day in the refreshing air of Mount Koya.
These experiences are included in the accommodation fee, and careful instruction is provided so that even beginners can easily participate.
In-Room Vegetarian Cuisine
Breakfast and dinner are served as vegetarian cuisine using seasonal vegetables and wild plants. Without using meat or fish, the dishes highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients, offering a gentle and deeply satisfying taste. Because meals are served in your room, you can enjoy your meal at your leisure without worrying about other guests.
Large Public Bath Available
The temple lodging is equipped with a large public bath, perfect for unwinding after a long day. Bathing amidst the clear air and tranquility of Mount Koya will be a special time to refresh both your mind and body.
Points to Note When Visiting
Preparation Before Your Stay
- Attire: Since you will be sitting in the seiza position or on a chair during the sutra copying and meditation experiences, comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement is recommended.
- Reservations: Reservations are necessary as it gets crowded, especially during the spring and autumn tourist seasons and on weekends.
- What to Bring: Toiletries and towels are provided, but it’s convenient to bring loungewear to wear instead of pajamas.
How to Spend Your Stay
Points to make the most of your stay at Ekoin:
- Participate in the Early Morning Service: The chanting that begins around 6 AM is a valuable experience unique to Koyasan.
- Stroll Through the Temple Grounds: Historic temples are scattered around the temple lodging, and quiet walking paths are well-maintained.
- Experience the Silence of the Night: You can have time to reflect on yourself in a deep stillness that cannot be found in the city.
Nearby Attractions
- Okunoin: Within walking distance of Koyasan’s largest sacred site where Kobo Daishi entered eternal meditation.
- Danjō Garan: The central religious complex of Mount Kōya, containing important buildings such as the Konpon Daitō (Great Pagoda) and the Kondō (Main Hall).
- Kongōbu-ji Temple: The head temple of the Kōyasan Shingon sect, where visitors can admire magnificent sliding screen paintings and gardens.
Benefits
Purification of Mind and Body
Through sutra copying and meditation, you can purify your mind and detach yourself from the distractions of daily life. Sutra copying, in particular, allows you to naturally enter a state of mindfulness by concentrating on each character, leading to stress reduction and mental stability.
Good Fortune and Protection from Evil
Mount Kōya is considered a sacred place filled with the blessings of Kōbō Daishi, and visiting is believed to bring good fortune, prosperity, and protection from evil. Staying at Ekō-in Temple and participating in the morning service allows for a deeper connection with Buddhism.
Academic Achievement and Intellectual Improvement
Kobo Daishi is revered as the god of learning, and many visitors come to pray for academic success and career advancement, as practicing sutra copying and meditation is believed to enhance concentration and insight.
Access
Public Transportation
From Osaka:
- Take the Nankai Electric Railway express train from Namba Station to Koyasan Station (approx. 90 minutes)
- Take the cable car from Koyasan Station to Gokurakubashi Station (approx. 5 minutes)
- Take the Nankai Rinkan Bus from Gokurakubashi Station and get off at the Senjuinbashi bus stop, then walk for approx. 5 minutes.
From Kyoto:
- Take the JR express train from Kyoto Station to Hashimoto Station, then transfer to the Nankai Electric Railway to Koyasan Station
- Total travel time: approx. 2 hours 30 minutes
Private Car
- Approximately 2 hours from Osaka city via the Hanwa Expressway and Keina-wa Expressway
- Parking is limited within Koyasan, so it is recommended to check with the temple lodging in advance regarding parking availability.
Shuttle Service
For shuttle services from Koyasan Station and major bus stops, please inquire directly with the temple lodging when making your reservation. This is especially convenient if you have a lot of luggage or are visiting for the first time.
Accommodation Information
- Check-in: 15:00~17:00 (Advance notice is required if you will be late due to dinner time)
- Check-out: ~10:00
- Price Estimate: Approximately 10,000~15,000 yen per night with two meals (Varies depending on season and room type)
- Reservation Method: By phone or via a temple lodging reservation website
A stay at Eikoin Temple will be more than just sightseeing; it will be a valuable opportunity to reflect on yourself and find peace of mind.
