Ryokans in Minobu

Our expectations from this stay were far exceeded in spite of our curiosity for our very first experience in a temple lodging. After a week in Tokyo, we quickly adapted to Japanese politeness, but here, in the Temple, we really felt as a part of a family. We felt kind of blessed in this magic place, not only with the Temple, but also in the surroundings: the magnificent garden and hundred-years-old cedar forests embracing this holy place. At the dawn, we were invited to a God's service to another Temple in proximity – Kuon-ji with Buddhist chants and prayers. The hosts of Kakurinbo prepared delicious dinners and breakfasts: they presented new and sometimes unusual meals for us. They were also very flexible with our changing plans and prepared yummy onigiri for our trip instead of breakfast. We were also offered some activities during our one week stay: copying sutra (calligraphy), morning prayers in Kuon-ji, morning yoga, excursion in a paper making manufactory, making Buddhist bead bracelet, tea ceremony, trying on wedding kimonos and kintsugi. There was a small festival of the Temple for guests which we enjoyed. The hosts also helped us a lot when picking us up at the train station in the evening when taxis were not available. The whole place of Minobu was calm and friendly with a few shops and Zencho café (run by the proprietors of the Temple lodging) offering delicious Japanese and European food. The Temple is a great starting point for short mountain hikes: you can take a cable car to the Minobu mountain and walk down through cedar forests full of ancient shrines. In a clear day, you can observe Mt.Fuji from the top of Mt.Minobu. The stay in the Kakurinbo Temple refreshed our body and soul. Even a month later, our experiences feel as if we were still there and we would be happy to return one day.

The entire experience was much more than expected. The head priest was exceptionally welcoming and inclusive. Extremely patient, generous, and gracious host. He spent a lot of time the following day with us. It is an experience my wife and I will never forget. There is a lot to see of the other temples and sights within walking distance,

Well, I havent seen such polite and helpful staff in my lifez thanks for the wonderful stay! Worth every penny

Amazing location, quiet and serene. Perfect view of fuji from our room. Excellent staff and service. Traditional Japanese rooms. Outdoor bath was amazing as well.

It was perfect. Beautiful breakfast and dinner and I mean it was BEAUTIFUL. Lake Shoji is very quiet and tranquil compared to Lake Kawaguchi. The rooms offer unobstructed view of Mt Fuji.

Our favourite feature was the gorgeous onsen with a view of Mount Fuji! Extra bonus was that we could access the onsen facilities together as a couple which we haven’t been able to do in some ryokans we have stayed in previously. Breakfast was delicious and generous.

The location was perfect, super close to the station. The staff was really nice and the room was comfortable. I had a room with views to Mt. Fuji😍 They give you a yukata :)

An unforgettable experience — the traditional food, stay, and bath were incredible. The monk and his wife were amazing hosts. He gave us a full tour of Kuonji Temple and invited us to attend the morning ceremony, where we felt truly included. Highly recommended — we would love to come back!