A working Shingon prayer temple and shukubo on Mt. Shigi with daily pre-dawn goma fire ceremonies, shojin ryori, and English support.
Features
Highlights
Daily Pre-Dawn Goma Fire Ceremony
Each morning the resident priests perform an esoteric goma fire ceremony in the Yokuyu-do, followed by the Great Prajnaparamita prayers in the main hall. Overnight guests are welcomed to attend — 05:00 in summer, 05:30 in winter.
Sub-Temple of Japan's Oldest Bishamonten Sanctuary
Founded in the late Heian period as a tatchu (塔頭, sub-temple) of Shigisan Chogosonshi-ji, the temple Prince Shotoku opened in 587 after a vision of Bishamonten on the eve of his battle with Mononobe no Moriya. The principal image in the Yokuyu-do is the rare Two-Bodied Bishamonten.
Full Practice Menu and Mountain-Top Views
40 Japanese-style rooms (1 to 200 guests, single travellers welcome), shojin ryori or kaiseki, large communal cypress baths, and a full menu of optional practices: shakyo (sutra copying), shabutsu (Buddha tracing), Hyaku-hachi-rai (108 prostrations), and Asokukan breath meditation.
About
Details
Frequently Asked Questions
9 questions about Shigisan Gyokuzo-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, Shigisan Gyokuzo-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.
Yes, Shigisan Gyokuzo-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 Shigisan Gyokuzo-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, Shigisan Gyokuzo-in provides complimentary WiFi throughout the property. Connection is available in guest rooms and common areas.
Yes, Shigisan Gyokuzo-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 Shigisanshita Station (Kintetsu Ikoma Line) / JR Oji Station, approximately 12 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 Shigisan Gyokuzo-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).
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