Jokiin
Location: 365 Koyasan, Koya, Wakayama-ken, 648-0211, Koya, JP
Star Rating: 2 Stars
Property Type: Ryokans
About this Property
Garden Views and Complimentary Amenities
Immerse yourself in the tranquil garden views and stay connected with the complimentary wireless internet access.
Convenient Facilities
Enjoy the convenience of complimentary newspapers, luggage storage, and a safe deposit box. Free self-parking is also available on-site.
Comfortable Accommodations
Relax in one of the 24 air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities such as refrigerators, safes, and complimentary wireless internet. The bathrooms feature separate bathtubs and showers, slippers, and hairdryers.
Indulge in a stay at Jokiin, centrally located in Koyasan, and explore the nearby attractions just a short drive away. Book now for an unforgettable experience!
Important Information
- Reservations are required for private bath/onsen. Reservations can be made by contacting the ryokan prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation.
- Up to 2 children 5 years old and younger stay free when occupying the parent or guardian's room, using existing bedding.
- The Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare requires all international visitors to submit their passport number and nationality when registering at any lodging facility (inns, hotels, motels, etc. ). Additionally, lodging proprietors are required to photocopy passports for all registering guests and keep the photocopy on file.
- Please note that some properties do not permit guests with tattoos to use the onsite public bathing facilities.
Policies
Check-in: 03:00 PM - 05:30 PM
Check-out: 10:00 AM
Instructions: The front desk is open daily from 9 AM - 5 PM. To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property ahead of time using the information on the booking confirmation. If you are planning to arrive after 5 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation. Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. Half Board is not included in the Half Board rate for children aged 0-5 years.
Amenities & Facilities
- Meeting rooms
- Free WiFi
- Garden
- Luggage storage
- Wheelchair accessible
- Safe-deposit box at front desk
- Free newspapers in lobby
- Front desk (limited hours)
- Meeting rooms
- Smoke-free property
- Free self parking
- Water dispenser
Rooms Available
-
Junior Suite, Non Smoking, Private Bathroom
4 Large Twin Futons
323-sq-foot room with garden views
Layout - Bedroom
Internet - Free WiFi
Food & Drink - Refrigerator and electric kettle
Sleep - Bed sheets
Bathroom - Private bathroom, separate bathtub and shower, slippers, and towels
Practical - Safe and wardrobe or closet
Comfort - Air conditioning, daily housekeeping, and tatami floors (woven mat)
Accessibility - Grab bar near toilet
Non-Smoking
Max Occupancy: 4 (4 Adults)
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Air conditioning
- Refrigerator
- Private bathroom
- Slippers
- Electric kettle
- Wardrobe or closet
- Tatami (traditional Japanese flooring)
- Daily housekeeping
- Separate bathtub and shower
- Free WiFi
- Bedsheets provided
-
Economy Twin Room, Non Smoking, Shared Bathroom
2 Twin Futons
118 sq feet
Internet - Free WiFi
Food & Drink - Refrigerator and electric kettle
Sleep - Bed sheets
Bathroom - Shared bathroom, slippers, towels, and a hair dryer (on request)
Practical - Safe and wardrobe or closet
Comfort - Air conditioning, daily housekeeping, and tatami floors (woven mat)
Accessibility - Grab bar near toilet
Non-Smoking
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Air conditioning
- Refrigerator
- Slippers
- Electric kettle
- Wardrobe or closet
- Tatami (traditional Japanese flooring)
- Daily housekeeping
- Separate bathtub and shower
- Free WiFi
- Bedsheets provided
- Shared outdoor bathroom
-
Deluxe Room, Non Smoking, Private Bathroom, No View
6 Twin Beds
312 sq feet
Layout - Bedroom
Internet - Free WiFi
Food & Drink - Refrigerator and electric kettle
Sleep - Bed sheets
Bathroom - Private bathroom, separate bathtub and shower, slippers, and towels
Practical - Safe and wardrobe or closet
Comfort - Air conditioning, daily housekeeping, and tatami floors (woven mat)
Accessibility - Grab bar near toilet
Non-Smoking
Max Occupancy: 6 (6 Adults)
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Air conditioning
- Refrigerator
- Private bathroom
- Slippers
- Electric kettle
- Wardrobe or closet
- Tatami (traditional Japanese flooring)
- Daily housekeeping
- Separate bathtub and shower
- Free WiFi
- Bedsheets provided
-
Standard Room, Non Smoking, Shared Bathroom
3 Twin Futons
172 sq feet
Internet - Free WiFi
Food & Drink - Refrigerator and electric kettle
Sleep - Bed sheets
Bathroom - Shared bathroom, slippers, towels, and a hair dryer (on request)
Practical - Safe and wardrobe or closet
Comfort - Air conditioning, daily housekeeping, and tatami floors (woven mat)
Accessibility - Grab bar near toilet
Non-Smoking
Max Occupancy: 3 (3 Adults)
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Air conditioning
- Refrigerator
- Slippers
- Electric kettle
- Wardrobe or closet
- Tatami (traditional Japanese flooring)
- Daily housekeeping
- Separate bathtub and shower
- Free WiFi
- Bedsheets provided
- Shared outdoor bathroom
-
Superior Room, Non Smoking, Shared Bathroom
6 Twin Futons
333-sq-foot room with city views
Layout - Bedroom
Internet - Free WiFi
Food & Drink - Refrigerator and electric kettle
Sleep - Bed sheets
Bathroom - Shared bathroom, slippers, towels, and a hair dryer (on request)
Practical - Safe and wardrobe or closet
Comfort - Air conditioning, daily housekeeping, and tatami floors (woven mat)
Accessibility - Grab bar near toilet
Non-Smoking
Max Occupancy: 6 (6 Adults)
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Air conditioning
- Refrigerator
- Slippers
- Electric kettle
- Wardrobe or closet
- Tatami (traditional Japanese flooring)
- Daily housekeeping
- Separate bathtub and shower
- Free WiFi
- Bedsheets provided
- Shared outdoor bathroom
-
Luxury Suite
5 Twin Futons
592-sq-foot room, located on the ground floor, garden views
Layout - Bedroom and living room
Internet - Free WiFi
Food & Drink - Refrigerator and electric kettle
Sleep - Bed sheets
Bathroom - Private bathroom, separate bathtub and shower, slippers, and towels
Practical - Safe and wardrobe or closet
Comfort - Air conditioning, daily housekeeping, and tatami floors (woven mat)
Accessibility - Grab bar near toilet
Non-Smoking
Max Occupancy: 5 (5 Adults)
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Air conditioning
- Refrigerator
- Private bathroom
- Slippers
- Electric kettle
- Wardrobe or closet
- Tatami (traditional Japanese flooring)
- Daily housekeeping
- Separate bathtub and shower
- Free WiFi
- Bedsheets provided
- Location - ground floor
-
Family Room, Non Smoking, Shared Bathroom (2F)
5 Twin Futons
236 sq feet
Internet - Free WiFi
Food & Drink - Refrigerator and electric kettle
Sleep - Bed sheets
Bathroom - Shared bathroom, slippers, towels, and a hair dryer (on request)
Practical - Safe and wardrobe or closet
Comfort - Air conditioning, daily housekeeping, and tatami floors (woven mat)
Accessibility - Grab bar near toilet
Non-Smoking
Max Occupancy: 5 (5 Adults)
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Air conditioning
- Refrigerator
- Slippers
- Electric kettle
- Wardrobe or closet
- Tatami (traditional Japanese flooring)
- Daily housekeeping
- Separate bathtub and shower
- Free WiFi
- Bedsheets provided
- Shared outdoor bathroom
-
Family Room, Non Smoking, Shared Bathroom (1F)
5 Twin Futons
237 sq feet
Internet - Free WiFi
Food & Drink - Refrigerator and electric kettle
Sleep - Bed sheets
Bathroom - Shared bathroom, slippers, towels, and a hair dryer (on request)
Practical - Safe and wardrobe or closet
Comfort - Air conditioning, daily housekeeping, and tatami floors (woven mat)
Accessibility - Grab bar near toilet
Non-Smoking
Max Occupancy: 5 (5 Adults)
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Air conditioning
- Refrigerator
- Slippers
- Electric kettle
- Wardrobe or closet
- Tatami (traditional Japanese flooring)
- Daily housekeeping
- Separate bathtub and shower
- Free WiFi
- Bedsheets provided
- Shared outdoor bathroom
-
Standard Twin Room, Non Smoking, Shared Bathroom, No View
2 Twin Futons
156 sq feet
Internet - Free WiFi
Food & Drink - Refrigerator and electric kettle
Sleep - Bed sheets
Bathroom - Shared bathroom, slippers, towels, and a hair dryer (on request)
Practical - Safe and wardrobe or closet
Comfort - Air conditioning, daily housekeeping, and tatami floors (woven mat)
Accessibility - Grab bar near toilet
Non-Smoking
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Air conditioning
- Refrigerator
- Slippers
- Electric kettle
- Wardrobe or closet
- Tatami (traditional Japanese flooring)
- Daily housekeeping
- Separate bathtub and shower
- Free WiFi
- Bedsheets provided
- Shared outdoor bathroom
-
Superior Room, Non Smoking
2 Twin Futons
150 sq feet
Internet - Free WiFi
Food & Drink - Refrigerator and electric kettle
Sleep - Bed sheets
Bathroom - Private bathroom, separate bathtub and shower, slippers, and towels
Practical - Safe and wardrobe or closet
Comfort - Air conditioning, daily housekeeping, and tatami floors (woven mat)
Accessibility - Grab bar near toilet
Non-Smoking
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Air conditioning
- Refrigerator
- Private bathroom
- Slippers
- Electric kettle
- Wardrobe or closet
- Tatami (traditional Japanese flooring)
- Daily housekeeping
- Separate bathtub and shower
- Free WiFi
- Bedsheets provided
Guest Reviews
- christopheryM5886SK (10/5): Second time at Jokiin - This is my second time coming to Koya-san and staying at Jokiin - this time in the winter. The coldness was rather brutal to say the least, but the company and hospitality of everyone at the temple is warm and made it bearable. Also I always look forward to the Shojin Ryori cuisine served here. It's a good change of pace to not feel bad after indulging on heavy foods.
- Themedic (6/5): Basic Ryokan - A very basic Ryokan. No en-suite. Just Japanese food with no other choice. The rooms were basic with futons and heaters which were needed. It is a great position for Koyasan.
- Logan (10/5): - This was one of THE best experiences I have ever had in all of my travels, including the two weeks in Japan. I struggled to decide which temple lodging to choose in Koyasan, and I am so glad I went with Joki-in. The check-in experience was wonderful, welcoming and helpful staff. They tour you through the entire property and help you adjust to temple life. Our room was bigger than every hotel we stayed in in Japan and a private bathroom (most the other temples do not have this) - sold!!! The garden, and bath, were so relaxing to enjoy. I actually had the bath to myself! The location is superb and the curfew is 10pm, which is great since most temples in Koyasan are 9pm! I found the food to be delicious and unique and sleeping on the floor extremely comfortable! I loved everything about this, just wish we could have done 2 nights here (but the price didn't allow for that!) If you aren't sure which temple to choose, choose this one!
- adventurerfoodie (10/5): Utterly delightful experience - An exquisite, calming and soul enriching experience. This Buddhist temple offers various types of traditional rooms where you sleep on futon mattresses on the floor. I was a little apprehensive about how comfortable this would be but to my surprise I had a delightful nights sleep and woke up feeling very refreshed. This could have been due to the Buddhist vegetarian dinner (served in our room) which was utterly delicious, or the serene nature of the temple itself or both! Early morning prayers with the monks was really special as was the traditional breakfast served in the dining room. We stayed in the Garden room as it offered an en-suite, all other rooms have shared facilities. The stay was expensive but this in our view was an utterly delightful experience.
- Patricia (4/5): - Way overpriced for what it was. While the garden and the services were good, it’s not a working temple for monks. It’s more like an inn for tourists in a temple structure. The morning Buddhist service gave me the feeling that it was just catered for tourists. By all means check out Koyasan during the day but you would be better off staying outside the mountain for a fraction of the cost. There’s nothing extra zen about staying at this place.
- ROBERT (10/5): Belle étape - Tres beau sejour atypique Repas et petit déjeuner vegetarien japonais abondant et soigné Cérémonie du matin interessante et inituation bienveillante au Bouddhisme . Passer une nuit à Koyasan permet de profiter du calme et du grand site situe juste à côté Onsen agreable
- Inga (6/5): Interessante Erfahrung mit Buddhismus - Der Aufenthalt in Jokiin ist nicht mit dem Aufenthalt in einem Hotel vergleichbar, es war eine interessante Erfahrung in einem Kloster zu übernachten, aber diese Erfahrung muss nicht wiederholt werden. Das Kloster selbst war sehr schön und die Mönche sehr freundlich und zuvorkommend.
- Iris (8/5): - Had a good one night stay here. I was worried it wouldn’t be enough time to see everything i wanted too, but it turned out to be perfect. You can drop off your luggage before and after you check in which is really nice. Highlights for me were the public bath, and morning ceremony.
- Christiane (6/5): - Koyasan is a lovely place and a must-see in Japan. As can be expected from a temple lodging, accommodation is pricey compared to what you get in a hotel of the same price but this is fine for me. Food was great, staff was friendly. I personally would have appreciated in the description a mention that the Deluxe room doesn’t have a window (as this is very uncommon for European standards and with a price of >1400 Euro I didn’t expect it). One point of serious criticism: the large Italian travel groups used the public bath without showering first…no adherence to the rules even during the morning ceremony during which 15/25 participants took photos and filmed behind the master’s back. I wonder why they bother to attend if they don’t respect the rules and spoil the experience for everyone else attending. Even their tour guide filmed. Very awkward. Otherwise a great place to stay!
- Jennifer (10/5): - Great place to stay. Ceremony in the morning also in English.
- simona (10/5): - Top
- Andrew (10/5): Perfect! - My family had a truly amazing stay here. One of the best experiences of our trip through Japan. The temple and surrounding area is beautiful. The staff spoke excellent English and the vegetarian food was great. Get up for the morning prayers if you can.
- Fabio (8/5): - Peaceful, traditional and culturally stimulating. My neck didn't appreciate ro sleep on futon on the ground, but it's the rule
- Tomy (10/5): - An amazing experience once in a life time we got the private room with garden view. Everything about the place is magical.
- Mariana (4/5): - Os vegetais estavam com um aspecto velho como se estivesse a muito tempo na geladeira. Não tive coragem de comer. O tempurá é servido frio. A comida foi uma grande decepção, pelo o valor que cobram achei que seria uma comida fresca e gostosa. O templo oferece apenas uma cerimônia pela manhã, seria legal ter uma meditação ou mais interação com os hóspedes. Agora estou nos templos da Coreia, aqui é bem diferente eles querem mesmo incentivar uma transformação do hospede. No Japão é mais comercial, parece que querem mais o $
- Lee (4/5): - Not worth the money.
- vitor (10/5): - very good and frendly stay
- Johannes (10/5): - Nice spiritual vibes.
- Izumi (10/5): - 案内してくれたスタッフは感じが良くて、お部屋も過ごしやすかった。晩御飯は、近くの花菱というところから仕出しをとっているとのことで、言う事なし。 朝の勤行の後で、住職さんが高野山の由来を説明して下さるなど、高野山のことをよく知らないで来た人たち(私！)も、居心地よく過ごせたのではないか。
- Fiona (10/5): - An enriching experience, one that I will never forget. The room was amazing, the setting was peaceful and the staff were lovely. I would recommend this temple stay to anyone who wants to reset and be at peace.
- Robert Arnaldo (10/5): - Fantastic staff. Great food. Peaceful and tranquil. The public bath was super relaxing
- Muhaimen (10/5): - Very tranquil!
- LeeAnn58 (10/5): Bucket list experience - impeccably clean, attentive staff, breakfast and dinner included - As an overall experience this was 5/5. The room was spacious with both AC and a kerosene heater (which we needed) as it was freezing. Safe in the room as they are not able to be locked. The staff are very attentive and the facilities are very clean. Dinner was vegetarian and buffet style which was served in your room. It was great to experience all of the Japanese foods. Futon mattresses were made on the floor by the staff and had warm doonas and blankets. Shared bathroom was a bit of an issue if you had to get up at night and walk to the bathroom in the cold. The monk who did the morning prayers was such a warm person making us feel very welcomed. Loved the chanting, ritual and symbols used the prayer ceremony. This was followed by a buffet breakfast served in the community dining room. They accommodated for the older ones of us with chairs if you could not sit on the floor to eat breakfast. Again, vegetarian traditional Japanese food. The Zen garden was peaceful but not attended to like some of the other gardens we had seen. A definite bucket list experience.
- Alison (10/5): - A superb overnight stay in this lovely temple lodging. The food was fantastic, as was the care shown to us by the staff. A unique experience which we’ll treasure.
- Julie (10/5): Relaxing and magical stay - Absolutely wonderful stay. The food was amazing, the staff was so kind and helpful and the area around Koyasan was beautiful. It was one of our favorite places to visit.
- Andrew (10/5): - Truly incredible. Amazing amenities, the food is great and close to all major sites. Highly recommend
- Moira (10/5): - cool place to stay. Staff was very supportive.
- Rfussy (6/5): Not worth it. - I stayed at this temple accommodation to immerse myself in the culture of Japan. It was fine but not worth the expense. It was quite a lot of money for one night and even though the traditional room was fine, unfortunately, the food was a disappointment. I expected to try unfamiliar foods but it was just ok. I stayed at a ryokan elsewhere for half the price and the food was a higher standard. The morning prayers were ok but in retrospect probably not really my thing. A day trip to Koyasan would have suited me better. The best thing about the place was the kind lady that greeted us. She was lovely and kind.
- Donna (8/5): - Very friendly staff and beautiful gardens
- Trinh (10/5): - A wonderful retreat and perfectly positioned to enjoy the surrounding around of Koyasan.
- nicbunce (10/5): Lovely temple stay - Koyasan is the best place you will visit in Japan, and the staff here at Jokiin were absolutely lovely. They really care about the people who come to visit, and are incredibly kind and welcoming. Plus, the fact that it is truly beautiful is always a bonus. Strongly recommend.
- Shay (10/5): - Our
- Lynn (8/5): - Very attentive staff.
- Frederic (10/5): - Great property! Staff was welcoming and friendly. The food was fresh and delicious. I would definitely recommend this accommodation to anyone visiting the area and wants great hospitality in an authentic temple.
- Sarah (8/5): - We greatly appreciated the directions and communication from Jokiin to assist us getting there from Kyoto. The grounds were lovely but small. Room was adequate with more than we expected. We had use of the shared bathrooms but no one else was using them so basically had our own. Enjoyed the heated blanket table and the bedding provided was also very warm. The dinner and breakfast were very different for us but we tried everything. Closeby to local sights too and public transport was easy. Quite a few food options around if the vegan menu isn't what you're after though. Very lovely neighbourhood.
- devin (10/5): - Absolutely amazing. The cuisine was superb. Stunning facilities and exceptional hospitality. Morning ceremony was special.
- Kurt (10/5): - The dinner and breakfast is definitely recommended! Unique, delicious and completes the experience
- Tony (10/5): - - A convenient location to visit nearby temples and museums within walking distance or by bus. - I enjoyed the traditional Japanese morning prayer service (starting at 6:30am). - Nice vegetarian meal set (we ordered additional meal set as local shops and cafes close around 5pm) - Look out for email confirmation from Jokiin - their check-in hour is quite short compared to commercial hotels
- Christopher (10/5): - Very tranquil atmosphere, the staff and monks were really accommodating and friendly, and the meals were delicious.
- John Paul (10/5): - Excellent experience. The vegetarian shojin ryori is delicious. Our room was fantastic. The head monk reads the sutras every morning at 6:30 and allowed us to sit and listen. It is centrally located amongst all the main sites except Okunoin. 5 stars.
- 88irisa (10/5): Great experience, highly recommended - We stayed here in Oct 2018 for 1 night with a friend, we wanted to experience staying at a Buddhist temple and a short stop at Koya-san provided this opportunity. We stayed in a Japanese style room which was great, the room opened to an inner courtyard/garden. Vegetarian Japanese dinner and breakfast was included and it was a beautiful feast, more filling than what I expected. Check-in is between 3pm-5pm but as early arrivals we could leave our bags in the office/lobby. Check-out was at 10am and again they kindly stored our luggage for us until we had to leave. The ryokan is in a central location which was important to us because we could easily walk to all the sights in town. Dinner was at 5:30pm, breakfast at 7am, there was an evening curfew at 10pm and the Buddhist ceremony in the morning was at 5:50. Staying here was not a cheap option but the whole experience was just fantastic, we really got value for our money. I highly recommend this temple and would stay here again.
- Jules (10/5): - The monks were fantastic. Very kind and helpful. They gave a tour of the temple and carried our bags to our room as well. Supper was large and well rounded, same with breakfast. The property itself is beautiful and centrally located near everything, so it is very easy to walk anywhere.
- Dave (10/5): - Jokiin is a Buddhist temple and a shukubo for guests, so it doesn't really lend itself to a typical hotel rating. It's not very big, so it's relatively quiet and peaceful. The staff are friendly and helpful and speak good English and they explained everything very clearly. The food is plain, but all you need. Attending morning prayers was an unforgettable experience. We hope to return to Jokiin.
- ShariannL (10/5): Amazing food, authentic experience--also tattoo friendly bath! A step into the past. - This isn't the "normal" tourist experience and doesn't have the "usual" amenities. What you get is the authentic sense of what it was like to live around 150-100 years ago in a traditional upper class Japanese home. Because although you are in a monastery there appear to be very few monks in residence, and the building itself resembles (on a much less extravagant scale) the palaces in Kyoto and Osaka. So yes, the room had no window, but that's because it's built in a traditional Japanese style where the rooms are off a corridor and the windows all face the corridor. If you want the view you go into the hallway--and the views here are all beautiful gardens. We were there in January and it was *cold.* The kerosene heater warmed the area and the heavy quilt and second blanket on the futon made sleeping nice and warm, but the room itself remained chill. A traditional device of a table with a heavy heated quilt kept our legs and feet quite warm during non-sleeping time, and the bath was a delight. Since I have tattoos, I was concerned because nothing said that tattoos were welcome in the public bath, but when I asked they said it was fine. All in all, the experience in the room and place really felt more like being in a mansion in Japan 150 years ago or so rather than a monastery per se, except for the early morning service, which we attended. It seemed there were few monks living here, but we truly enjoyed the sense of what life was like for the upper class in the 19th Cent. And the food--oh my, the food! It is all vegan, it is all delicious, and there was far more than I could possibly eat. I think dinner consisted of something like 8 dishes, or maybe more? Soba noodles, and another soup, a sesame tofu, tempura vegetables, four kinds of pickles, rice (of course!) roasted vegetables, and a lot of other things I forget. But each dish was distinct and utterly scrumptious. Breakfast wasn't quite as large, but was still too much for me (especially after the feast the night before) and was still quite varied (two different noodle soups, and rice and pickles and different preparations of vegetables than the night before) and it was wonderful. Entirely worth it for the food alone. We did attend the early morning service with the monks and found it very interesting and meditative--a calming way to start the day.
- Verified traveler (10/5): - Clean, tidy and great garden view. We stayed in a suite with private bathroom. Staff are very friendly and tried their best to help. Excellent.
- 122pattyl (6/5): Interesting experience, nothing more, cold everywhere - We are in town to hike some mountains (which were absolutely beautiful, especially since we were lucky to catch a rare fog that descended down from the top when we hiked up and eventually covered the whole mountain and town, adding even more to its mystic appearance) and not here for anything spiritual. We were thus not interested in the morning rituals offered. With that background, we found Jokiin, as an accommodation, charging quite a high price for what it offers. We came here at the end of November, coming directly by a seasonal tourist bus from Ryujin onsen (info in Kumano travel) and found Koyasan much colder (around 3 degrees Celsius) than the rest of the region due to its high altitude. Note that except for the reception area and the breakfast room, nowhere else in the establishment is heated. We were lucky to have chosen a room that includes a very modern private bathroom, otherwise some guests will just have to use the communal sinks to wash up near the freezing corridors. They also have a small room for you to relax and read a book but it was also not heated. With 30 tourists in a big breakfast room heated only with one gas heater in the center, eating cold food except for the rice and soup, frankly I was not too impressed with such ascetic experience. Talking about food, the vegetarian dinner served in the room was well presented and sumptuous. The only complaint I had was the tempura which was served cold. On the other hand, I didn't realize when I booked that the room we had has all the windows open to the corridors inside, thus there was no view at all. I didn't mind it too much as we were mostly out during the day, however be careful if you prefer a room with a view. Staff are efficient and friendly, though not particularly warm.
- Woei Chyuan (8/5): Top Shukubo in Koyasan - This is my 4th time visiting Koyasan and Jokiin is certainly one of the best shukubo in Koyasan in terms of service and food! This is also one of the few shukubos in Koyasan that has real ensuite facility rooms.
- Verified traveler (8/5): - Koyasan is an incredible place. The temple of Joklin is very special and morning service with monks was inspiring. But i was not impressed with general staff and services for guests.. it seemed to be all about the money.
- Verified traveler (10/5): - I'm glad I chose to stay in Jokiin. I was looking for a small and peaceful temple lodging and Jokiin was that and more. Staff are welcoming and helpful, especially Mie. The premises are well maintained. My room is lovely and comfortable. Food is delicious and prepared with care.
- Robert (8/5): - Nice temple. Accommodation and meals as expected. Would recommend the experience.
- fran_oisp636 (10/5): Fantastic experience in Koyasan - Stayed one night there as we wanted to experience a night in Buddhist temple at Koyasan during our trip in Japan. And we had an amazing stay. The temple is absolutely beautiful, several wonderful gardens and the room we had was really clean, spacious and comfortable. We wore yukatas, experiences their great onsen, and ate vegetarian and delicious dinner and breakfast. Everybody was simply so nice, always ready to make us comfortable. We participated as well to the morning ceremony, it is must-do, the prayer room with all its lanterns is amazing. Maybe one little regret, I would have appreciated learning a bit more history about the temple itself, the differences between all the temples on Koyasan, their practices and so on. We had a brief introduction in English during the prayer ceremony though. It does not change the fact that the experience was fantastic.
- Verified traveler (10/5): - Incredible place! Loved every bit of it! The food was fabulous & the location stunning.
- thomasaY9028QQ (6/5): Neither Ryokan/hotel, nor monastery - Stayed there for 2 nights; good, central location. Our room was window-less; next time we would book a room with a window; we felt locked-in. You can’t really stay in your room (with is your dinner and bedroom at the same time; you cannot sit anywhere. We had in-room shower and toilet which was ok. Very friendly and helpful staff. The morning “Buddhist celebration” was ridiculous and totally touristic. You don’t get an authentic monastery feeling/impression. But not sure you get that anywhere else in Koyasan. You must visit the famous graveyard forest- superb experience.
- 76amaias (6/5): Sobrevalorado - Igual es que teníamos las expectativas muy altas pero sinceramente después de viajar hasta aquí he de decir que realmente no es lo que esperábamos de un templo. La habitación es amplia y te preparan los futones después de cenar en ella a las 17:30. Hasta las 22:00 ha sido imposible dormir, nos ha tocado un grupo de campamento con el correspondiente griterío, por otra parte sorprende que en la habitación hay Tv (las paredes son de papel). No se corresponde con lo que pagas te sale la noche a precio de hotel de 5 estrellas... Lo mejor y lo que ha merecido la pena es poder acudir al rezo de las 6:00 con los 3 monjes. El personal también ha sido muy amable en todo momento. Just as we had very high expectations but honestly after traveling here I have to say that it really is not what we expected from a temple. The room is spacious and they prepare the futons after dinner in it at 17:30. Until 22:00 it has been impossible to sleep, we have had a camping group with the corresponding shouting, on the other hand it is surprising that there is TV in the room (the walls are made of paper). It does not correspond to what you pay for the night at a 5-star hotel price ... The best and what has been worth it is to be able to go to the 6:00 prayer with the 3 monks. The staff has also been very friendly at all times.
- Verified traveler (10/5): - Vegan meals were tasty and really interesting. Morning ceremony was amazing.
- Verified traveler (6/5): - The price we paid (14,000 Yen for 1 night, 2 futons in the room) was expensive, considering we had a shared bathroom and there was only 1 shower, to be shared among all the guests in the temple.
- 5imon5ays (10/5): Unique - Let me start by saying this isn't a regular hotel. If you go there with a view of it being like one you may be disappointed. What you're paying for is a once in a lifetime opportunity to spend some time in a 700yr old monastery at the top of a mountain that was not all that long ago off limits to the general public. If you are paying out then you absofrigginglutely have to get up and go to the morning prayers. I served my time going to Sunday school when I was a kid so generally I'm not into this kind of thing. The morning prayers however are worth going to. When you arrive at the temple be sure to ask about the cemetery walk that is done in the evenings from another temple down the road. You can reserve a place online easy enough. Also make use of the onsen. It's only small but a good place to chill out for a bit before dinner which by the way is excellent.
- Verified traveler (10/5): - Fabulous visit. Excellent location, staff wonderful and amazing Koyasan!
- JC (8/5): - nice temple loging - great place to stay to experience koyasan
- wls1988 (10/5): Peaceful sanctuary - I spent two nights at Koyasan, and Koyasan itself was a magnificent place to be in. I spent one of the two nights at Jokiin, with the other night at Ekoin. Between the two, Jokiin was less crowded, and more peaceful. One added bonus was that on the night I stayed there, there was some mild snowing, and when we woke up, the temple's roof and surroundings were covered in snow, which was quite a sight to behold. I attended the morning ritual, which was very spiritual. Though it was very cold (for someone like me who has spent my entire life in a tropical country), the facilities were adequate, and kept my partner and I warm. It takes a while to get used to taking showers in the public bath, but if you keep an open mind, it can be rather liberating and gradually, you will get used to it. The temple is also near many places of interest, which makes it rather convenient as a base to set off from. The staff at the temple can speak English, so it is not a big issue for tourists for speak English as well. Overall, I would definitely recommend people to consider this accommodation.
- Verified traveler (10/5): - Absolutely beautiful, and we had so much fun staying here! Hot bath was great, and snow in the morning on the courtyard garden was breathtaking.
- Chong Joo (10/5): Peaceful Experience - The location was great . We booked the room with attached bathroom and that was a good experience. The common corridor is very cold. Snowing .Meals were good. The wifi in the room not so good
- Verified traveler (10/5): Good location and nice staff - Jokiin's location is good with Kongobuji Temple and Garan within sight and the bus stop right in front of the Temple. Okunoin Temple was about 20 min stroll away. One of the staff could speak fluent English so it was easy to communicate for check-in. Shared areas such as the toilets were very clean. Would highly recommend this shukubo.
- Darryl (10/5): Great stay - Stayed here for one night to experience staying in a shukubo and also the morning prayer. Before arriving, Jokiin contacted me about the directions which was very helpful since I didn't know the cable car wasn't running. Getting here was long like everyone says but it was easy, especially the bus fom Hashimoto Station to Daimon Minami where the station staff guide visitors who arrive. Finding Jokiin was easy as well. Check in was easy and everyone was friendly and spoke English. The whole complex is very nice and clean, as is the room. The photo of the room (garden view) makes it seem bigger than it actually is but the room was still spacious nevertheless (and we loved having a kotatsu). Didn't include the meals in our reservation but there's a Family Mart nearby to buy food. The morning prayer was at 6am and an interesting experience, too. Definitely recommended!
- Kartch (10/5): Winter Shukubo stay at Koyasan - once in a lifetime experience. 6 stars. - Staying overnight at Jokiin temple was a big highlight of our trip in February. I'd say, anyone who is interested in Japanese culture, and especially Shinto Buddhist teachings, should experience Shukubo stay. The time spent here is so unique and special, that you will remember it forever. At first, Shukubo experience appears to be a ryokan or inn, but it is quite different. You are staying at an actual monastery (temple) and sharing a day of your life with Shingon Buddhist monks. Obviously, you are not required to pray and do the chores, but you can totally immerse in the atmosphere of Shinto. The town of Koya-san is the heart of Shinto Buddhism. It was closed to visitors for almost 1200 years, and only opened up to tourists some 10+ years ago, once it's been granted a World heritage status. Jokiin is one of many Koya temples. It is a large, 700 years old temple, serviced by 6 monks, who will cook your dinner, and in the morning you can join them for morning ceremony at 6am, after which you will share breakfast with other guests. The food was fantastic, strictly vegetarian, but even my meat eating husband demolished both, dinner and breakfast. Rooms are Japanese style, with plenty of portable heating. Windows are sealed and open up into majestic garden. Sleeping is on tatami mats, walls are thin, floors are squeaky, bath is communal and separated on female/male - all things you used to know and experience in a typical Japanese inn. If you want, you can purchase beer or sake for dinner. But note that everything shuts down at about 8pm, as monks are getting up very early. We stayed in winter and after a snowy night, we woke up to a snow covered garden outside our window, which was a breathtakingly beautiful sight. Staff speaks excellent English and are most accommodating. The temple is centrally located to everything, walking distance to Okunoin too. We had a night stroll around the temple after dinner, and snow was dumping. All surrounding pagodas were lit up and covered in snow, and the bell would go from time to time at one of the temples in a distance. My heart was absolutely overflown with emotions just walking around this wintry, sacred and profoundly beautiful place. Jokiin stay will be a highlight of your trip in Japan, I can almost guarantee. Provided, of course, that you respect and understand Japanese culture and traditions and are open for new experiences. Koyasan has many walking tracks around the mountains, so it can be enjoyed in any season. There are lot's of maple and wisteria trees around, so it would be very colourful too. Winter though added some extra magic, and I thoroughly recommend a winter visit.
- Verified traveler (10/5): - The Buddhist vegetarian food (shojin ryori) for dinner and breakfast was quite good! They even carried my heavy suitcase for me.
- gigi123227 (10/5): Amazing experience! - Joki-in was a wonderful stay for my mother and I. This is a temple, so be aware that if you are expecting a 5 star hotel without rules, then this is not the place for you. If you would like to be immersed in the experience of a temple then you will love it. The check-in was easy, and the receptionist spoke great English and was very helpful. The temple grounds itself is beautiful and serene. Our room was traditional and lovely, warm enough even in the cold February weather. The bathrooms were clean and modern. The bath house was quite nice, though public like most Japanese bath houses. We opted for dinner and breakfast, which was such a wonderful experience, I could not be more happy with our stay. Wi-if is available and free, tea is brought to your room. Dinner is served in-room and breakfast is served in a separate room. You may join the monks at 6 AM for morning ceremony and prayer, which was such a wonderful treat. Overall, this was by far the most unique experience in Japan. My mother and I loved it! Could not recommend it more.
- Verified traveler (10/5): - The staff were excellent. They were very polite and attentive to our needs. The building was also amazing.
- Verified traveler (10/5): Wonderful, but winter not the best time to go - Wonderful, amazing place. The only problem was that we were there in January (temps in the 20s) and the temple has no heating, only kerosene heaters in the room, and the fumes gave us a headache... I would go back in a heartbeat, but only in warmer months. The futons were nice and warm at night, and I wouldn't expect them to modify an 800-year-old building; it's just how it is. Koyasan (specifically, Okinoin) is one of the most beautiful places I've ever visited in Japan.
- X3348YQdebbieh (6/5): Beautiful garden view - There was a maple tree just outside of our room. In the evening, we ate our dinner and enjoyed the garden view. Also, the dinner was delicious. Our receptionist spoke English fluently and was very helpful. Be aware that you have to pass the corridor to the shared restroom, and there is no heater outside of the room.
- KaleneAndy (10/5): Something completely different - We stayed here overnight for our Koyasan visit and thoroughly enjoyed the unusual experience. Located on the main road through the town, Joki-in is one of many shukubo, where accommodation is available to travellers at temples & monasteries. We were warmly greeted by a lady speaking good English, who checked us in. Note – Joki-in has recently started to accept credit cards, handy when the full board nightly rate is more than double most good hotels. The extensive buildings are surrounded by a beautifully maintained garden, as well as a shrine. Guests are required to leave their shoes at the main entrance, using the provided slippers when inside. Our room was very large, with a main area and a sleeping area, as well as a small entrance lobby. Our multi-course vegetarian evening meal was served early – around 6pm – with the monks returning to collect the dishes later on. The food was delicious and filling – anyone who doesn’t normally eat a vegetarian diet should have no issues enjoying themselves. The room had abundant heating, as well as a TV and safe. The bedding was also cosy, so we slept well. The temple has its own onsen for bathing, accessible via an underground passage (a great idea in the winter chill!) For those less comfortable with public nudity, there is also a private shower room available for a few hours each morning. Talking of the morning, guests are invited to join prayers with the monks from 5:45am, for around 45 mniutes. While this made for a chilly start (like most temples, insulation isn’t one of Joki-in’s strengths), it gave a great insight into their daily life. Breakfast was served to all guests in one sitting at 7:30am, and comprised similar fare to the evening meal. Both the breakfast room and the prayer room had space heaters, taking the edge off the morning chill (Koyasan is located at nearly 1000m above sea level). We can thoroughly recommend this unique experience.
- Brucie13 (10/5): Very special stay - Reception was very nice. The girls spoke English very well. Room was beautiful. Very comfortable beds. View was beautiful, we were overlooking the garden. The food was beautiful but it wasn't the best good we ever had. But a good experience. The temple grounds and surroundings are beautiful. This was definately one of the highlights of my three week Japan trip.
- Verified traveler (10/5): Lovely and special temple stay - Our stay at Jokiin was lovely and serene. It's well located among the other temples and near shops and the bus stops from Koya station. We reserved a room with a private bathroom, which was very nice and modern. The vegetarian temple cuisine was lovely and delicious! We participated in the early morning ceremony, and that was very special. We went in November, so during the night time it was extremely cold in the building. Our room was kept warm by a gas heater. A trip like this is more about enjoying the serenity and getting insight into Buddhist practice than luxury and comfort, so we thought it was perfect!
- Julie (8/5): - Lovely temple accommodation, with very helpful staff. Food was good and plentiful. We had an ensuite bathroom which is worth paying extra for. Koyasan is a great place to visit, but don’t expect anything to be open after 6pm.
- fernandarfe (10/5): Unforgettable, fantastic experience - Our stay at Jokiin was an unique and unforgettable experience. The location is very central to explore the main points of interest in Koya-san, the staff is lovely, very helpful and speaks good English and the authentic accommodations are comfortable enough. The Shojin-ryori meals were delicious! And it was amazing and touching to sleep in the temple, watch the morning ceremony at 5:45 AM, interact with the monks and stroll through the beautiful gardens of Jokiin. It was an invite to meditation and contemplation. Their onsen for guests is also great (separated by gender), it was a privilege to relax there before going to sleep. Highly recommended!
- cdgx23 (2/5): No value for money - Nice, very quite and clean place, comfortable sleep, however super expensive compared what you get (I paid 270 eur per night!) and: food is only for people used to vegan, we couldn’t eat much; no facilities except a small and not attractive warm pool; only one shared shower in all ryokan, which is only available until 9:30am; entrance close at 10:00pm if you are out you stay out; morning Buddhist ceremony is just for guests, meaning for tourists. I really felt ripped off, I wouldn’t suggest it at all at this price
- Chris (10/5): Great experience - I am very pleased with our stay at Jokiin. The staff took a lot of extra effort and care to make our stay a great experience. The meals are traditional Japanese vegetarian and are prepared with great care. We had the standard meal size and it was a lot of food. I would definite recommend Jokiin.
- 660emilyi (10/5): A Wonderful Experience - This place is lovely, especially for the price. Of course all of the temples are making a business out of having guests stay, but this one still felt like there was true Buddhist practice happening there too. The atmosphere is very peaceful, especially the gardens. We found the whole thing to be a nice refuge after the busyness of Osaka and Kyoto. The vegetarian food is good and interesting. I highly recommend getting up early to watch the morning ceremony. The public bath was clean and comfortable also. Highly recommend
- Verified traveler (10/5): Amazing time, would definitely stay again! - Amazing stay in Koyasan. The staff were helpful and most spoke at least some English. The food was amazing vegan cuisine; dinner is served in your room, while breakfast is in a shared space. They also take special requests like gluten-free. The public baths were a little small but quite warm and comfortable. Be sure to experience the morning chants at least once. The Wi-Fi was fine throughout most of the temple, though our room's router was having issues during our stay.
- Harm (10/5): - Expect an authentic experience, but out of your comfort zone. The food is different from what you are used to, but it adds to the whole feel of the stay. Definitely expensive, but unique, so worth it.
- Verified traveler (10/5): - Excellent location, friendly staff and tasty meals make our stay an incredible one.
- Michael (10/5): Excellent stay!! - This was a really an excellent stay - highly recommended.
- Verified traveler (8/5): - Great experience sleeping in a temple, I recommend you go early in the morning to the praying ceremony.
- Verified traveler (10/5): Amazing stay - Amazing and unique experience in peaceful and beautiful surroundings! I warmly recommend.
- mike (10/5): - Jokiin is a one-of-a-kind experience that you will never forget. From the Japanese bath to the stunning six course vegan meal that looks more like art than dinner served in your room to the 6 am temple service. The staff was so helpful and willing to answer all our questions about the 300 year tradition of hosting guests here in unforgettable Koyasan, a historic mountaintop retreat and magical place of more than 200 temples and the most revered and scenic cemetery in Japan. One warning -- it can get really cold at night despite the portable heaters so be prepared for camping-like cold conditions. There are a lot of options for temple stays in Koyasan but Jokiin was fabulous, welcoming and perfectly located next to the Kongobuji temple and dozens of other shrines and temples that would have you running out of film in the pre-iPhone days. Highly recommended.
- brooke (8/5): Incredible mountain lodging experience! - Traditional mountain temple lodging in Koyasan. Centrally located within easy walking distance of the amazing sites and sights of Koyasan. We were so impressed with the woman who checked us in, gave recommendations and a map of sites to visit, and ensured that we were comfortable throughout our stay, as well as the services provided by the monks. Dinner and breakfast are prepared and served by the monks and the food was INCREDIBLE. Option to have dinner served to your room -- after which the monks prepare your futon beds. You may also attend morning meditations (0600 AM). Beds put away and delicious breakfast served to your room thereafter. Of note, we were there during a very cold time of year and there is little insulation (common for this type of construction), so hallways to bathrooms were *very* cold and rooms a bit hard to heat, so consider this if planning a winter trip. Overall an amazing experience, I'd definitely recommend it!
- Marlon (8/5): Excellent location for temples viewing and museum - The room was so cold and feel like the place is empty, I guess not much guest at the time of stay. Location is very good, staff are polite. Yes, would definitely recommend this place.
- Koala (8/5): Great experience - Would recommend staying a night in a temple in Koya-san for the experience. There are a lot of temples to chose from, not sure how this one compared to others, but it was fine. You get a very basic room (we stayed in one without a view, which means a very small and covered window) where you eat your evenings meal and breakfast and a futon bed is made up after dinner, where you sleep. The food is vegetarian and prepared by the monks - it's pretty good, but not as fancy as you'd get in a Royokan for example - do bear in mind this is quite basic accomodation or you might be disappointed, it's more about the experience. You can attend the chanting in the morning at 6am, which I'd recommend. Toilets and bathrooms are located outside of your room and are communal.Yakata's and slippers for outside the bedroom are provided.
- Verified traveler (10/5): Brilliant - Adorable staff, wonderful room, beautiful garden, excellent amenities... I highly recommend Jokiin.
- Verified traveler (10/5): Once in in a lifetime experience. - What an experience. We thought we'd stay for a night and experience traditional Buddhist culture. It was amazing. The food was all vegan and the temple and surroundings were stunning. Typical Japanese baths which are segregated and you have to go naked so you'll have to leave the British coyness at home! Make sure you get up at 6 am - once in a lifetime opportunity!
- Pontus (10/5): Best experience - We had the most amazing experience at Jokiin temple. First of all we were greated so nicely and congratulated to our anniversary on arrival with a delishious dish accompanied by green tea, brought to our room by one of the monks. The temple and the grounds were so incredibly beautiful. Breathtaking gardens. The room was large and had a view of one of the gardens and we found nothing but serenety. Their public bath is not a hot spring but is very nice. And they have a handy walkway underground if it's too cold/rainy/snowy outside. We attended the 6am ceremony with the monks and got a brief history of the temple and a tour of the temple by one of the monks. The sights around are unbelievably beautiful and impossible to describe. Just so serene. The whole experience was incredible and breathtaking. Will always remember it and will hopefully be back again on our next trip to Japan.
- Barbara (10/5): Great experience - What a lovely place in Koyason. We enjoyed the morning ceremony and the personal service. Very nice and helpful staff.
- Sandra (10/5): The best temple by far - This was the most pleasant, relaxing, tranquil and comfortable stay I had experienced. The temple is above comparison with others in the area making it feel a way of life rather than a tourist haunt. The hospitality was magnificent and just the right ammount of attention. Please, if you can, allow yourself this incredibly experience not to be forgotten.
- Nischay (8/5): - very clean and interaction with staff. Prompt and good dinner and breakfasts served.
- Kenneth (10/5): Serenity in Koya-san - Jokiin Temple is a wonderful place to stay and experience Buddhist culture and cuisine. The staff is friendly and helpful. The rooms are traditional Japanese style including the bedding. There's a modern public bath with soaking tub. Delicious vegetarian meals are a treat.
- Ludmila (4/5): i do not recommend this hotel to anyone - Compare to other Koya hotels, this one is not very friendly, sounds proof and not well maintained
- lincoln (8/5): Nice size room...that is a suite - Very good overall...can't make it to the morning service but i really try to get up befor 6am...that is the part I missed the most
- Verified traveler (8/5): this is a temple - it is a temple, and the beds are tatami mats - it's traditional. We didn't order breakfast or dinner when we reserved and couldn't add it on once we were there. The staff and monks spoke English and were very nice. We were welcomed at the 6 am service. All restaurants seem to close by 6 pm, so get food before then.
- TH (10/5): Wonderful Experience - This was one of the highlights on my trip to Japan. Wonderful hotel (temple) with amazing, friendly, and caring staff. One of the highlights of my trip to Japan. We were able to attend the Monk's morning ceremony which I would recommend. I would definitely stay here again.
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