Muryoko-in, which means immeasurable light, is a temple in Koyasan with a history of over 1000 years.  It is dedicated to Amida, the Buddha of Infinite Light and Life;  the light of Amida’s wisdom and the life of his compassion are boundless.  The older facilities at Muryoko-in enhance the feel of this classic temple stay experience.  The silent garden and pond behind the temple joins seamless with the forest, and inspires guests with each glance.  The highlight of a stay here is the morning ceremony with its hypnotizing esoteric morning rituals.

Morning Buddhist Ceremony & Gomataki Fire Ritual

Every morning at Muryoko-in a Buddhist morning ceremony and Gomataki Fire Ritual takes place in the main worship hall, and is open to guests. The rich colors, smells of incense, and rhythmical chants of the monks are enchanting. One of a few temples in Koyasan, the Gomataki fire ritual is performed daily, in which a sacrificial fire is kindled and consecrated before invoking divinities and making offerings of prayers on wooden tablets. Flames rise and dance from the elaborate alter as if entranced and controlled by the priest reciting mysterious prayers and enigmatic mantras. Near the end of the ceremony worshippers are sometimes invited to the rear of the hall to make offerings of incense, allowing for an otherworldly, immersive experience.

Nan-in is an immaculate temple north of the Tourist Information Center, near the Tokugawa Reidai Mausoleum and Nyonindo women’s hall.  It is marked by a large tree in the entrance way and has elegant gardens scattered throughout the grounds, which can been seen from the hallways and many of the guestrooms.  The quiet solitude of these refined green spaces is soothing to the soul. The fierce glare of a giant dragon painted on the ceiling of the main hall looms over worshippers.  Legend has it that if you clap under its menacing scowl you can make it roar.  The sacred space of the special guestroom highlights the temple’s traditional sensibilities.

Kokuu is a guesthouse in Koyasan, a mountain top Buddhist village and sacred site.  It is located on the east side of town near the Nakanohashi entrance to the atmospheric Okunoin cemetery.  The friendly, young owner has intimate local knowledge having grown up in Koyasan in a Buddhist family. The building is an original design, with a simple exterior and striking interior.  When you enter through the sliding doors a distinct white hallway leads down the center of the building, open to a criss-cross of rafters and skylights.  On the right is a cosy sitting area with wood burning stove.  On the left is a welcoming bar.  Further down the hall are doors to guestrooms (single "mountain" capsules, double, and triple rooms), toilets, and showers.  Koyasan Guesthouse Kokuu has the feel of a designer mountain cabin.  It is a unique option for those wishing to see Koyasan and not necessary wanting to stay in a temple.

Koyasan Guesthouse Kokuu can only accept reservations 90 days or less in advance.
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Fudo-in is a temple in the holy Koyasan Buddhist mountain retreat.  It is located off of the main road between the Visitor center and Okunoin cemetery.  It is a smaller temple in the upper end of a tiny valley surrounded by forest.  The long entrance from the main road is marked by a stone post.  Fudo-in is well known for its refined, welcoming atmosphere and peaceful setting, perfect for meditating.  The separate "Hanare" rooms offer splendid views of the garden; secluded spiritual luxury.