2-Day Zenkoji Overnight Tour With Shukubo Temple Lodging

Nestled in the serene mountains of Nagano, Japan, the 2-Day Zenkoji Overnight Tour with Shukubo Temple Lodging offers a spiritual journey akin to a gentle breeze that soothes the soul.

This immersive experience allows travelers to stay at a ‘shukubo temple lodging,’ seeing the tranquility and traditions of Japanese culture.

Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, guests will explore Zenko-ji, a revered Buddhist temple, and witness the captivating fire ceremony.

Indulging in a guided sake tasting and savoring traditional meals, you will be enveloped in a truly authentic experience.

From the moment they meet at Nagano Station to the peaceful retreat at the shukubo temple lodging, this tour promises to transport visitors to a world of inner peace and enlightenment.

Good To Know

• The Zenko-ji Overnight Tour offers guided tours of Zenko-ji Temple and its fire ceremony.
• Accommodation is provided at a ‘shukubo temple lodging’, offering tranquility and spirituality.
• Participants can participate in morning prayers and witness traditional ceremonies.
• The tour includes vegetarian meals made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Tour Details and Inclusions

The tour’s details and inclusions include:

• An English-speaking guide
• Guided tours of Zenko-ji and its fire ceremony
• Accommodation at a ‘shukubo temple lodging’
• Meals
• A can of ‘Shichimi / ‘7 Spice per guest

Enjoy the unique experience of staying at a shukubo temple lodging, where you’ll be able to embrace the tranquility and spirituality of traditional Japanese culture.

Throughout the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Zenko-ji, one of Japan’s oldest and most revered Buddhist temples, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide. Witness the mesmerizing fire ceremony, a ritual that dates back centuries.

Indulge in traditional Japanese meals, carefully prepared to showcase the country’s culinary excellence. And to add an extra kick to your culinary adventure, each guest will receive a can of ‘Shichimi / ‘7 Spice, a beloved seasoning that adds a burst of flavor to any dish.

Get ready to embark on a journey that will nourish both your body and soul.

Accommodation and Guide

During the 2-day Zenkoji Overnight Tour with Shukubo Temple Lodging, guests will be provided with accommodation at a Japanese-style room with on-floor futon bedding and an English-speaking guide in Nagano City.

Staying at a shukubo temple lodging offers several benefits. Firstly, guests have the unique opportunity to experience the tranquility and spirituality of a temple environment. They can participate in morning prayers and witness traditional ceremonies, seeing the rich cultural heritage of Japan.

Plus, shukubo lodgings often provide vegetarian meals, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, allowing guests to enjoy a traditional Buddhist dining experience.

On top of that, having an English-speaking guide is crucial for non-Japanese speakers. The guide won’t only assist with communication but also provide valuable insights into the history, traditions, and significance of Zenkoji Temple. With their expertise, guests can fully appreciate the beauty and significance of this historic site.

Guided Tour of Zenko-ji

Guests on the 2-day Zenkoji Overnight Tour with Shukubo Temple Lodging can embark on a guided tour of Zenko-ji, seeing the rich history and cultural significance of this revered Buddhist temple.

The tour highlights include:

1. Exploring the Main Hall: Guests will have the opportunity to enter the Main Hall, known as the hondo, which houses the sacred statue of Amida Buddha. They can witness the devotion of worshippers and experience the tranquil atmosphere of the temple.

2. Fire Ceremony Experience: Visitors can participate in the mesmerizing fire ceremony, a ritual believed to cleanse the soul and bring good fortune. Witnessing the powerful flames and hearing the chants of the monks is a truly unforgettable experience.

3. Kaidan Meguri: This unique underground passage allows guests to navigate through complete darkness, symbolizing the journey to enlightenment. It’s said that those who find a key hidden along the passageway will receive blessings.

4. Sanmon Gate: As one of Japan’s largest wooden gates, the Sanmon Gate is an impressive structure that leads visitors towards the temple’s inner grounds. Its intricate design and grandeur add to the overall awe-inspiring experience.

The guided tour of Zenko-ji provides a deeper understanding of the temple’s significance and offers an unforgettable cultural experience.

Additional Expenses

Visitors on the 2-day Zenkoji Overnight Tour with Shukubo Temple Lodging can expect to incur additional expenses during their trip. While breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included in the tour package, there may be extra costs for additional food, snacks, and drinks. It’s important for travelers to budget accordingly and plan for these additional expenses.

When it comes to dining, one must-try local cuisine in Nagano is soba noodles. Nagano is famous for its delicious buckwheat noodles, which are often served with a flavorful dipping sauce. There are many soba restaurants near Zenkoji Temple where travelers can sample this regional specialty.

Along With food, there are also entry fees for certain attractions at Zenkoji Temple. These include the O-Asaji morning service, which is optional but highly recommended for a more immersive experience. Visitors should also budget for entry to Kaidan Meguri, a unique underground passage, and Sanmon, the temple’s main gate.

Meeting and Pickup

Upon arrival at Nagano Station, the guide will be waiting in front of the large Information Board to meet and pick up tour participants for the Day Zenkoji Overnight Tour With Shukubo Temple Lodging. The guide will ensure that everyone is accounted for before proceeding to the next destination.

Here are four important things to know about the meeting and pickup process:

1. Local Transportation: The guide will assist participants in navigating the local transportation system, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey to the shukubo temple lodging.

2. Sightseeing Attractions: Along the way to the temple lodging, the guide will make stops at Saiko-ji Temple, allowing participants to explore and appreciate the local sights and culture.

3. Lunch: After visiting Saiko-ji Temple, the group will proceed to a designated restaurant for a delicious and fulfilling lunch, providing an opportunity to savor local cuisine.

4. Group Introductions: During the journey from Nagano Station to the temple lodging, the guide will take the time to introduce everyone in the group, fostering a sense of camaraderie and creating a welcoming atmosphere for all participants.

Start and End Points

The starting and ending points for the Day Zenkoji Overnight Tour With Shukubo Temple Lodging are Nagano Station and 良性院, respectively. Nagano Station is the meeting point where you will gather before embarking on their journey. From there, they will be guided by an English-speaking guide to the Zenko-ji Temple, making a stop at Saiko-ji Temple along the way. After a delicious lunch, the tour will continue to the shukubo temple lodging at 良性院, where you will check-in and say their goodbyes to the guide. The shukubo offers a unique and tranquil experience, with dinner and breakfast provided.

For transportation options, participants can easily reach Nagano Station by train. The station is well-connected and accessible from major cities in Japan. As for nearby attractions, the Zenko-ji Temple itself is a significant historical and cultural site that is worth exploring. Plus, participants can choose to attend the O-Asaji morning service during breakfast, adding a spiritual touch to their experience.

Let’s visualize the starting and ending points with the following table:

Start Point	End Point
Nagano Station	良性院

Common Questions

How Do I Make a Reservation for the Day Zenkoji Overnight Tour With Shukubo Temple Lodging?

To make a reservation for the Day Zenkoji Overnight Tour with Shukubo Temple Lodging, one can book online and choose from various payment options. It’s a convenient way to secure a spot for this unique experience.

Is Transportation Included in the Tour Package?

Transportation options for the Day Zenkoji Overnight Tour include meeting at Nagano Station and walking to the temple. The tour does not provide transportation, so guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements.

Can I Choose the Type of Room I Will Be Staying in at the Shukubo Temple Lodging?

Yes, guests can choose the type of room they will be staying in at the shukubo temple lodging. Vegetarian meals are also available upon request.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participating in the Tour?

Age restrictions may apply for participating in the tour. It is advisable to check the tour itinerary or contact the tour organizer for specific age requirements and any restrictions that may be in place.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Shukubo Temple Lodging?

Yes, guests are allowed to bring their own food and drinks to the shukubo temple lodging. However, it is important to note that there may be dietary restrictions or guidelines in place at the shukubo temple lodging.

The Sum Up

Set out on a spiritual journey in Nagano, Japan with the 2-day Zenkoji Overnight Tour. Stay at a shukubo temple lodging, learn about Japanese culture, and witness the mesmerizing fire ceremony at Zenko-ji.

Indulge in a guided sake tasting and enjoy delicious meals throughout the tour. With an English-speaking guide leading the way, this unique experience offers an authentic and immersive exploration of Nagano’s spiritual side.

Don’t miss the chance to find inner peace and tranquility on this unforgettable adventure.