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Henjoson-in main hall with the colored five-cord Buddhist bannerGolden Buddha altar with painted columns at Henjoson-inTatami guest room overlooking autumn maple at Henjoson-inShojin ryori multi-course vegetarian dinner at Henjoson-inCypress bath with garden view at Henjoson-in
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Mid-Range| Koyasan

Henjoson-in

遍照尊院

A Koyasan shukubo built on the hill where Kobo Daishi practiced asceticism, with a large cypress bath and Ajikan meditation.

Staff speaksEnglish · 日本語
SectShingon (真言宗)
from$95 /per night
Check Availability

Features

English FriendlyVegetarian MealsFree WiFiCredit Cards

Highlights

Built on Kobo Daishi's Ascetic Site

The temple stands on "Henjo-ga-oka," the hill where Kobo Daishi (Kukai) is said to have engaged in ascetic practice during the founding of Koyasan. The principal image is the Two Realms Dainichi Nyorai (Ryokai Dainichi).

Large Cypress Bath

A spacious communal bathhouse uses Japanese cypress on the lower floor and Koya-maki cypress on the upper floor, accommodating up to 50 bathers in a calm temple atmosphere.

Five Practice Experiences

Guests can choose from Ajikan meditation, sutra copying (shakyo), Buddha image tracing (shabutsu), Osunafumi sand-stepping pilgrimage, and a temple walking tour.

About

Henjoson-in stands on Henjo-ga-oka, the very hillside where Kobo Daishi (Kukai) is said to have engaged in ascetic training during the founding of Mt. Koya. The temple was rebuilt in 1934 to commemorate the 1,100th anniversary of Kobo Daishi entering eternal meditation, after a fire in the late Meiji period. The principal image is the Two Realms Dainichi Nyorai. Guests stay in 33 traditional Japanese-style rooms, sleep on tatami and futon, and bathe in an unusually large cypress communal bath that uses Japanese hinoki on one floor and Koya-maki on another. The shojin ryori dinner and breakfast are prepared by resident monks. Daily practice options include Ajikan meditation, shakyo (sutra copying), shabutsu (Buddha image tracing), Osunafumi sand-pilgrimage, and a guided temple walk. The Garan complex with the Konpon Daito pagoda is just a few minutes' walk away, making Henjoson-in an ideal base for night strolls through central Koyasan.

Details

Check-in: 15:00
Check-out: 10:00
33 rooms
Koyasan Station (cable car) (18 min walk)
From $95 - $220/night

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions about Henjoson-in

A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn featuring tatami-mat rooms, futon bedding, communal or private baths, and multi-course kaiseki meals. Guests typically wear yukata (cotton robes) provided by the inn. A ryokan stay is one of the most authentic cultural experiences Japan has to offer.

Upon arrival, you'll be provided with a yukata (light cotton robe) and a pair of slippers. You can wear the yukata throughout the ryokan — to dinner, to the onsen, and even for a stroll in the neighborhood. Indoor slippers should be removed before stepping on tatami mats.

Yes, Henjoson-in has English-speaking staff who can assist with check-in, dining reservations, and local recommendations. Communication should not be an issue for international guests.

Check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is by 10:00. If you arrive early, most ryokans can store your luggage while you explore the area. Late check-in may be possible — contact the ryokan in advance to arrange.

Yes, Henjoson-in can prepare vegetarian meals. Japanese Buddhist cuisine (shojin ryori) is naturally plant-based and beautifully presented. Please inform the ryokan of your dietary requirements at least 2 days before arrival so the chef can prepare accordingly.

Yes, most ryokans including Henjoson-in offer luggage storage for guests arriving before check-in time. You can also use coin lockers at the nearest station or luggage delivery services (takkyubin) to send bags directly from the airport or previous hotel.

Yes, Henjoson-in provides complimentary WiFi throughout the property. Connection is available in guest rooms and common areas.

Yes, Henjoson-in accepts major credit cards including Visa, Mastercard, and JCB. Some ryokans may also accept American Express. It's always good to have some cash as a backup for small purchases.

The nearest station is Koyasan Station (cable car), approximately 18 minutes on foot. You can reach it by local train, subway, or taxi. The ryokan can provide detailed walking directions upon request.

You can book Henjoson-in through trusted platforms like Booking.com or Expedia. Click the "Check Prices" button on this page to check availability and rates. We recommend booking at least 2-4 weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons (cherry blossom in March-April and autumn leaves in November).

temples.from$95 /temples.perNight