A 1,300-year-old shukubo founded by En no Gyoja southeast of Kinpusen-ji, with a famous tahoto pagoda and weeping cherry. Used by Retired Emperor Shirakawa and Matsuo Basho.
Features
Highlights
Founded by En no Gyoja Himself
Tonan-in is a Bekkaku Honzan (Special Head Temple) of the Kinpusen Shugen Honshu sect, founded by En no Gyoja in the late 7th century to protect Mt. Kinpusen from the southeast (tatsumi). It has welcomed pilgrims for 1,300 years.
Imperial and Literary Pilgrim Lodging
Records show Retired Emperor Shirakawa stayed here during his 1092 pilgrimage to Kinpusen, and the haiku poet Matsuo Basho lodged here in 1684 while writing the verses later collected in his "Nozarashi Kiko" travel diary.
Tahoto Pagoda and Weeping Cherry
The temple's small two-storey tahoto pagoda (relocated from a Wakayama shrine in 1937) framed by a single weeping cherry tree is one of the most photographed scenes on Yoshino-yama in spring. The Kamakura-period seated wooden Dainichi Nyorai is a Nara Prefecturally-designated Cultural Property.
About
Details
Frequently Asked Questions
9 questions about Tonan-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.
Tonan-in has limited English support. We recommend using a translation app or asking your hotel concierge to help with any pre-arrival communication. The staff is very welcoming and will do their best to assist.
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, Tonan-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 Tonan-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.
Tonan-in may have limited credit card acceptance. We recommend having Japanese yen (cash) available. ATMs at convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart) accept international cards.
The nearest station is Yoshinoyama Station (Yoshino Ropeway), approximately 11 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 Tonan-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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