Experience temple life

At Ekoin Temple, we offer a variety of experiences that only a temple lodging can offer.
By participating in these activities, you will be able to experience the teachings of the Kobo Daishi and the traditions of Koyasan.

Religious Service

Every day at 7 am, the Religious Service is held in the main hall.
The deities Fudo Myoo, Kobo Daishi, and the Ryokai Mandala are enshrined around the principal image of Amida Nyorai, while offerings are made to the spirits every morning.
Overnight guests are welcome to participate in this service. Memorial services for one’s ancestors are also available.

Goma prayer

Following the morning service, a Goma (Homa) Fire Ritual is performed every day at 7:30 am at the Bishamondo. This prayer is based on the teachings handed down from the Tang Dynasty by the Odaishi. Overnight guests are welcome to participate. Visitors not staying at the lodging may apply in advance to participate.

Ajikan

Ajikan is a meditation method in Esoteric Buddhism. The monks will give you detailed instructions at the Ajikan Dojo. Please spend some time away from your busy life and take a moment to relax.
Available every day from 4:30 pm for about 40 minutes. This activity is free for guests staying at the lodging.

  • ※This activity is also available to visitors who are not staying overnight. In this case, we will ask for 1,000 yen as an offering. If you wish to participate, please come at least 10 minutes before the start of the session. If more than five people would like to participate, please contact us in advance.
  • ※We apologize, but we do not allow preschool-age children to participate.

Sutra copying

You can practice sutra copying in your room at any time. If you would like to participate, please let us know when you check in. Wholeheartedly transcribing each word of the Heart Sutra will help you clear your mind of distractions and bring you peace of mind.

  • ※Participants may dedicate a sutra to the Okunoin. If you wish to do so, you will need to pay a 1,000-yen donation fee. There is no charge if you would like to dedicate the sutra to this temple.
  • ※This activity is also available to visitors who are not staying overnight. In this case, we ask for 2,000 yen as an offering. Please contact us if you are interested.

Shojin Ryori

Shojin ryori is a very healthy and hearty cuisine that uses plenty of natural ingredients. Please take your time and enjoy your meal in the traditional atmosphere of this temple lodging. Lunch is available by reservation only. We also accept reservations from visitors who are not staying overnight.

Night Tour of Okunoin Cemetary in Koyasan

A monk living in Koyasan (qualified as a guide in the precincts of Kongobuji) will be your guide. You can visit Okunoin at night, which offers a fantastically different experience than the daytime. The tour will meet at 7 pm and will take about two hours, walking slowly along the approach to Okunoin. We will meet at Ekoin Temple.

(External link)