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Ichijo-in tatami guest room with garden viewIchijo-in shukubo lodging interiorSutra copying experience at Ichijo-inMorning service at Ichijo-inCultural experience at Ichijo-in
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Luxury| Koyasan

Ichijo-in

一乗院

A renovated luxury shukubo on Mt. Koya with just four garden-view suites, each with a private hinoki cypress bath, and acclaimed shojin ryori cuisine.

Staff speaksEnglish · 日本語
SectShingon (真言宗)
UNESCO World Heritage
from$280 /per night
Check Availability

Features

English FriendlyPrivate OnsenVegetarian MealsFree WiFiCredit Cards

Highlights

Renovated Suites with Hinoki Cypress Bath

In January 2023 the two-story main building was fully renovated, reducing ten guest rooms to just four spacious suites. Each suite has a private hinoki cypress bath, large garden-view windows, and table seating.

Acclaimed Shojin Ryori

Ichijo-in is widely regarded as one of the finest shukubo on Mt. Koya for vegetarian temple cuisine, prepared with seasonal local mountain ingredients.

Heian-Period Origins

Originally founded by the priest Zenge in the early Heian period (Konin era, 810–824) and revived in 1177 by Kengaku Daigi-bo, Ichijo-in carries more than 1,100 years of history as a sub-temple of Kongobu-ji.

About

Ichijo-in (一乗院) is a Bekkaku-honzan (special head temple) of Koyasan Shingon Buddhism with origins in the early Heian period. The temple is traditionally said to have been founded by the priest Zenge during the Konin era (810–824) and was revived in 1177 by Kengaku Daigi-bo, giving it more than 1,100 years of continuous history. Centrally located within Koyasan, it sits within walking distance of both Kongobu-ji and the Danjo Garan complex. In January 2023 the two-story main building underwent a major renovation that reduced the previous ten guest rooms to just four exceptionally spacious suites, each featuring a bedroom, a private hinoki cypress bath, large windows overlooking the garden, and table seating — a level of privacy and amenity rare among Koyasan shukubo. Ichijo-in is widely regarded as one of the very best temples on Mt. Koya for vegetarian shojin ryori, prepared with seasonal mountain ingredients. Sutra copying and Ajikan meditation can be arranged. The morning service in the main hall is open to all guests. Ichijo-in lies within the UNESCO World Heritage core of Koyasan.

Details

Check-in: 15:00
Check-out: 10:00
4 rooms
Koyasan Station (cable car)
From $280 - $800/night

Frequently Asked Questions

11 questions about Ichijo-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, Ichijo-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, Ichijo-in offers private onsen (kashikiri-buro) that can be reserved for personal or family use. This is perfect for couples, families, or guests who prefer privacy. Ask at the front desk upon arrival to reserve a time slot.

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

Yes, Ichijo-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). You can reach it by local train, subway, or taxi. The ryokan can provide detailed walking directions upon request.

You can book Ichijo-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$280 /temples.perNight