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Ekoin

Ekoin

Mount Koya, Japan

Mount Koya is a great location for those looking to experience a traditional monastery stay and enjoy the tranquility of the area, where Shingon Buddhism was created over 2,000 years ago.

The Ekoin is an inviting monastery, welcoming of couples, friends and families alike. Here, there is the opportunity to stay in a traditional room, enjoy vegan meals, participate in a meditation lesson and watch the morning prayer and fire ritual.

OUR OPINION:

The Buddhist monks and staff are friendly and beyond respectful. The morning Buddhist chants and meditation room are what make this a special, authentic place to stay.

OUR RATING: Simple

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Rooms

The rooms at the Ekoin monastery are of a minimalist, yet authentic Japanese style, with decor such as tatami matt floors, futon mattress and traditional pillow. The majority of rooms have shared bathroom facilities.

Location

Ekoin is located on the main road in the Mount Koya region making it a perfect location for visiting the Okunoin cemetery and other shrines and attractions. From the cable car station there is a bus stop for Karukayadomae, which is just a short distance from the entrance. 

Food and drink

Breakfast and dinner are inclusive as part of a stay at Ekoin, and are of Buddhist vegan cuisine known as Syojin Ryori. Meals are served to guests' bedrooms each morning and evening.

Facilities and activities

When staying at Ekoin, guests can partake in morning services, group meditation or the Goma fire ritual. In the evening there is an optional guided cemetery walk to learn more about the historical and spiritual significance of the monastery.

Nearby there are great hiking options to take in the beautiful surroundings of Koya-san Eko-in.

Tour ideas in Mount Koya

Our itineraries are there to spark ideas for how you could include a stay at Ekoin as part of your trip. Treat them simply as suggestions, because every aspect of the trip we create for you will be yours to define.

Location & places nearby

Places & hotels on the map

    Alternative places to stay nearby

    Where possible, we like to offer a range of accommodation for each stop of your trip, chosen by our specialists as some of their favorite places to stay. To help you make the right choice, we give each property a rating based on its facilities and service, but we also look for hotels with distinct character or a location that can't be bettered.

    Mount Koya and nearby places