Temple Lodging Shukubo Kakurinbo

We spent one night at Kakurinbo and managed to pack so much into the day. It’s a refreshing, peaceful stay surrounded by nature, ideal if you want to step away from cliché tours and connect with local culture. Kuon-ji Temple is a 10-15 minute walk away. The meals were great and the staff served each one with care. We stayed in the Chalets Bupposo, which was cozy and comfortable for two. The shared bath is booked ahead for a time slot. Staff are helpful and friendly, one of Kakurinbo’s highlights. A shout out to Christian, who has a calm, soothing personality. We felt lucky to be among the few visitors from India, and maybe the first from Mumbai.

We only stayed two nights at Kakurinbo, though we would happily have stayed longer. It’s a peaceful, beautiful temple lodging, away from the big cities and less known than busier places like Koyasan. The cultural experiences offered each day can be signed up for, and they also have e-bike rentals. Minobusan felt relaxing as soon as we arrived, and checking into Kakurinbo made it even better. The staff were welcoming and helpful. Our room on the top floor looked out over the garden and pond, and the view was stunning. Breakfast and dinner each day were well worth choosing, with everything carefully thought through. We definitely recommend staying here if you want somewhere peaceful and beautiful.

My two nights here were really special, calm, and serene. The room is basic but has everything you need, and the staff are friendly and helpful. I loved taking time each morning to drink tea and look at the beautiful view. The breakfasts and dinners were so good that I miss them, especially the natto, and the deep fried ones are unforgettable. There’s also a little souvenir shop with cute things. I’d love to come back.

This beautiful temple stay tucked among the trees on Mount Minobu feels like a special place to immerse yourself in the area’s history and spirituality. Kakurinbo is very easy to reach from Tokyo, with one bus from Shinjuku station and breathtaking mountain views along the way. Kuonji temple is close by, about a 15 minute walk, and we could hear the bells each morning. The staff are wonderful and welcoming, and they’re a huge part of what makes the stay so special. The food is incredible too. We had breakfast and dinner provided each day, and the delicious spread of varied local foods was a highlight every day. We stayed for three nights and found that to be the perfect amount of time to enjoy the full experience. I’d recommend at least two nights, and would go back in a heartbeat. Please add Kakurinbo to your Japan itinerary.