Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Look no further than the ‘2-Day Zenkoji Overnight Tour with Shukubo Temple Lodging’ in Nagano, Japan.
This tour offers a unique opportunity to learn about Japanese spirituality while enjoying the comforts of a traditional shukubo temple lodging. Picture yourself in a serene Japanese-style room, complete with futon bedding and a sense of tranquility.
With an English-speaking guide by your side, you’ll explore Nagano City and visit the revered Zenko-ji temple, where a captivating fire ceremony awaits. Indulge in a guided sake tasting and savor delicious meals, all included in the package. Optional activities like attending the O-Asaji morning service add to the adventure.
Get set for a truly unforgettable cultural experience.
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Quick Takeaways
- Experience staying overnight in a traditional Japanese temple at a ‘shukubo temple lodging’
- Enjoy a guided tour of Zenko-ji temple and gain knowledge about its history and cultural importance
- Engage in a traditional fire ceremony at Zenko-ji temple for inner peace
- Indulge in a guided sake tasting to savor the flavors of Japan
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Tour Details and Inclusions
The tour includes accommodation at a ‘shukubo temple lodging’ with a Japanese-style room and on-floor futon bedding. Guests will experience traditional Japanese hospitality and culture through their temple stay.
The English-speaking guide in Nagano City will provide a guided tour of Zenko-ji, one of Japan’s most important Buddhist temples, and guests will have the opportunity to participate in a mesmerizing fire ceremony.
As part of the tour, guests will also receive a 12-14g can of ‘Shichimi / ‘7 Spice, a popular Japanese condiment. A guided sake tasting at Yoshinoya is also included, providing guests with a taste of Japan’s famous rice wine.
Meals are taken care of, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included in the tour.
Accommodation and Guide
Guests will be provided with accommodation at a ‘shukubo temple lodging’ and will be accompanied by an English-speaking guide throughout the tour.
The shukubo experience offers a unique opportunity to stay overnight in a traditional Japanese temple. The accommodations typically feature Japanese-style rooms with on-floor futon bedding, providing a comfortable and authentic experience.
The English-speaking guide will be there to assist guests in navigating Nagano City and to provide insights into the local culture and history. They’ll also lead a guided tour of Zenko-ji, one of Japan’s most important Buddhist temples, and the highlight of the tour.
Plus, guests will have the chance to participate in a fire ceremony, adding to the spiritual atmosphere of the experience. With the English-speaking guide by their side, guests can fully enjoy the rich traditions and customs of Zenkoji.
Guided Tour and Fire Ceremony
During the guided tour and fire ceremony, you will have the opportunity to explore Zenko-ji Temple and engage in a spiritual experience. The guided tour will provide insights into the history and significance of the temple, allowing visitors to appreciate the cultural heritage of the site. The fire ceremony, a traditional Buddhist ritual, creates a serene atmosphere where participants can reflect and find inner peace. To give you a better idea of what to expect, here is a table outlining the highlights of the guided tour and fire ceremony:
| Activities | Description |
|---|---|
| Guided Tour | Gain knowledge about Zenko-ji Temple’s history and cultural importance |
| O-Asaji Morning Service | Optional activity during breakfast to enhance the spiritual experience |
| Sake Tasting | Enjoy the flavors of Japan by participating in a guided sake tasting |
These activities provide a well-rounded experience, allowing participants to explore the spiritual aspects of Zenko-ji Temple while also seeing Japanese culture through sake tasting.
Additional Expenses
Visitors on the Day Zenkoji Overnight Tour with Shukubo Temple Lodging can expect to incur additional expenses during their stay. Along With the tour package, there are entry fees for some paid attractions at Zenko-ji. These include a 1000 yen fee for entry to the O-Asaji, a 500 yen fee for entry to the Kaidan Meguri, and a 300 yen fee for entry to the Sanmon.
It’s important to keep in mind that these fees aren’t included in the tour package and will need to be paid separately.
On top of that, there may be other additional expenses that aren’t covered in the package, such as additional food, snacks, and drinks. Visitors also have the option to attend the O-Asaji morning service during breakfast, which may incur additional costs.
Meeting and Pickup
Participants on the Day Zenkoji Overnight Tour with Shukubo Temple Lodging will gather at Nagano Station, where they’ll be greeted by the English-speaking guide in front of the large Information Board.
Nagano Station is conveniently located in the city center, making it easily accessible by various transportation options. For those arriving by train, Nagano Station is served by the JR Nagano Shinkansen Line, as well as local train lines. If traveling by bus, there are several bus routes that stop at Nagano Station.
Along With being a meeting point, Nagano Station is also home to several local attractions. Visitors can explore the nearby Zenko-ji Temple, one of Japan’s most important Buddhist temples, or visit Saiko-ji Temple, which is located along the way to Zenko-ji Temple.
After the meeting, you will proceed to lunch before starting the tour.
Start and End Points
The start and end points of the Day Zenkoji Overnight Tour with Shukubo Temple Lodging are conveniently located at Nagano Station, where you will gather and be greeted by their English-speaking guide. From there, the tour will proceed as follows:
- Check-in at your shukubo: After meeting at Nagano Station, you will be taken to their shukubo temple lodging, where they’ll check-in and settle into their Japanese-style rooms with on-floor futon bedding.
- Guided tour of Zenko-ji and fire ceremony: The tour will include a guided tour of Zenko-ji, one of Japan’s most important and popular Buddhist temples. Participants will have the opportunity to witness a fire ceremony, a sacred ritual held at the temple.
- Dinner and breakfast: Dinner will be served between 18:00 and 20:00, allowing participants to experience traditional Buddhist cuisine. The following morning, breakfast will be served between 07:30 and 09:00.
- Optional activities: During breakfast, participants have the option to attend the O-Asaji morning service, a tranquil and meditative experience that offers a deeper connection to the temple’s spiritual atmosphere.
With these start and end points, participants can look forward to a fulfilling and immersive experience at Zenko-ji, complete with optional activities that enhance their understanding and appreciation of the temple’s traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Significance of the Fire Ceremony at Zenko-Ji?
The fire ceremony at Zenko-ji holds great significance. It has a rich history and is seen as a purification ritual. Participants believe that by passing through the sacred flames, they can cleanse their impurities and receive spiritual blessings.
Can I Choose My Own Futon Bedding at the Shukubo Temple Lodging?
Yes, guests have the option to choose their own futon bedding at the shukubo temple lodging, ensuring comfort during their stay. This allows them to personalize their sleeping arrangement according to their preferences.
Are There Any Vegetarian Meal Options Available During the Tour?
Yes, there are vegetarian meal options available during the tour. The tour is vegetarian friendly, and they provide vegetarian meals. They accommodate dietary restrictions and offer a variety of vegetarian menu choices.
Is There a Dress Code for Attending the O-Asaji Morning Service?
There is no specific dress code for attending the O-Asaji morning service, but it is recommended to dress modestly and respectfully. Visitors should observe proper etiquette during the service, such as maintaining silence and refraining from taking photos.
Can I Visit Other Attractions in Zenko-Ji on My Own During the Tour?
Yes, guests are free to visit other attractions in Zenko-ji on their own during the tour. However, it is important to follow the tour itinerary and consider any additional expenses that may not be included.
The Sum Up
To sum it up, the 2-day Zenkoji Overnight Tour with Shukubo Temple Lodging offers travelers a remarkable opportunity to enjoy Japanese culture and spirituality.
With comfortable accommodation, a knowledgeable guide, and a guided visit to Zenko-ji temple, participants can experience the tranquility and beauty of Nagano City.
The tour also includes the chance to indulge in sake tasting and savor delicious meals.
This package promises an unforgettable adventure filled with culture, spiritual enlightenment, and culinary delights.
