Kongo-Sanmai-In

Kongo-Sanmai-In is a historic shukubo (temple lodging) nestled in the quiet embrace of World Heritage–listed Mount Koya. Surrounded by preserved Kamakura-period architecture, we offer a retreat where guests can reconnect with inner peace through practices such as morning rituals, sutra copying, and Ajikan meditation—unique to Koyasan. Embraced by the ever-changing beauty of the seasons, and nourished by local shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine), this is a place to step away from daily life and return to the self.

Retreat Plans

Japanese-Style Family Room with Private Toilet

The family room features air conditioning, tatami, as well as a shared bathroom boasting a bath and a shower. The family room offers a wardrobe, a safe deposit box, heating and a flat-screen TV. The unit has 5 futons.

Duration: 2 days/1 night
Date: Available All Year
Price: Price may vary depending on seasons and number of guests.

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Japanese-Style Triple Room with Private Toilet

The triple room features air conditioning, tatami, as well as a shared bathroom boasting a bath and a shower. The triple room offers a wardrobe, a safe deposit box, heating and a flat-screen TV. The unit has 3 futons.

Duration: 2 days/1 night
Date: Available All Year
Price: Price may vary depending on seasons and number of guests.

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Triple Room [Shared Bathroom]

Guestrooms feature tatami (woven-straw) floors and Japanese futon bedding. Bathrooms and toilets are shared, while free toiletries and slippers are provided.

Duration: 2 days/1 night
Date: Available All Year
Price: Price may vary depending on seasons and number of guests.

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Experience

Morning ceremony: We hold our ceremony every morning from 6:30am. If not staying with us, please make a reservation.
Sutras: By taking sutras, people who are busy daily can feel calm, know the difficulty of writing with brush, and cultivate the ability to concentrate. (¥1,500/per person, 1~2hrs)
Ajikan: Ajikan is originally Shingon’s meditation to calm down feelings. Nowadays the general public can take Ajikan. Ajikan is meditation method with watching only ”阿“.

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More About Us

Kongo-Sanmai-In is a venerable shukubo known for its Kamakura-era Tahoto Pagoda and its peaceful setting in Odawaratani, one of the most tranquil corners of Koyasan. Here, away from noise and distraction, we offer a retreat for those seeking to reconnect with themselves. Guests can experience spiritual practices such as morning prayers, sutra transcription, and Ajikan meditation. Meals are crafted from local vegetables, Koya tofu, and sesame tofu, served as gentle shojin ryori. From spring rhododendrons to the snows of winter, the beauty of the changing seasons adds to the healing atmosphere where mind and body can be restored.

Environment

Founded by Hojo Masako to honor her husband, Minamoto no Yoritomo, Kongo-Sanmai-In is a historic sub-temple with deep roots in the Kamakura period. The temple preserves its original Tahoto Pagoda and is registered as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range.” Guest rooms facing the inner garden offer serene views of the pond and seasonal foliage, allowing visitors to spend time surrounded by peace, reflection, and natural beauty.

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Reviews

Nice bath, really comfortable room, amazing experience. Not crowded. If you get to the morning prayer, you’ll get an history of the temple, which is very interesting. Definitely an UNESCO world heritage.
Jean – 🇧🇪

surrounded by nature and peace. the room was large enough and equipped with a separate WC room. we found nice kimono and slippers. everything was very clean. interesting vegetarian food experience. an early prayer is included in the rate which was moving. kind and helpful staff.
Gianfranco – 🇮🇹