Houtouji Temple

That snowy morning could have made it hard to get to Nara, since the local trains weren’t running. They drove me through the snow to the nearest station with service, then walked me all the way to the platform to make sure I boarded the right train. That’s above and beyond. The family who run Houtouji Temple are unbelievably kind. I felt at home and wished I could have stayed longer than a day. It’s directly above the train station, reached by a steep, switchback path, and the views from the top are stunning. I had dinner and breakfast, both fantastic. Getting up for the 6am temple prayer was well worth it, and I’d recommend it to anyone visiting. A beautiful stay with wonderful people.

Everyone in the temple family was warm, friendly, and smiling. The man who picked us up and explained things was especially kind, and the two young women serving in the restaurant were attentive and lovely. The chef was very good and kindly prepared vegetarian food for me. Thank you for welcoming us.

The dinner and breakfast were delicious, and the setting in the middle of nature was wonderful. I felt like I was staying with a friendly, welcoming family. Thanks for everything.

Watching the morning Buddhist worship with his son at Houtouji Temple was fascinating, and husband Hodzui was always attentive. Yoshiko-san had picked me up herself from the station, and the whole family treated me with such kindness. They’ve made a beautiful destination in their home, reached through the bamboo forest at the top of the hill. Houtouji / cafe Les Vagues was easily my favorite guesthouse on this trip to Japan. The homemade breakfasts and dinners were wonderful, and the café, with its artwork, homely touches, and Yoshiko-san’s professional flower arranging, is a lovely place to relax. My bedroom was huge and the facilities were spot on. The setting is hard to beat: dawn over the mountains lights up the temple, the cherry tree, and even the pet goat. I hope I can return someday.