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Shigisan, between Nara and Osaka
Welcome to Gyokuzo-in. This Buddhist temple was first established about 1400 years ago. It is located on the east side of the Mt Ikoma, between Osaka and Nara. There is a morning prayer that starts around 6:00 am. As guests of Gyokuzo-in you are invited to attend the prayer services. The prayer service is about 40 minutes long. There are 50 rooms at Gyokuzo-in. Only one of them has a private bath and toilet.
Wonderful & Rewarding
An interesting trip to get to Shigisan. From Kyoto used a Kintestsu 2 day pass ( not accepted on Shigisan Bus) . Rail ok many interchanges. Return to Osaka was straightforward. Speaking Japanese certainly help find as Gyokuzo-in is difficult to get to from the bus stop ( has no useful signs). Once there via the information Centre that is most helpful we had an easy check in thanks to the staff and were taken to out accommodation with a lovely tour of the building, Room spacious, Ryokan bath and toilets very clean. Food marvellous. Not many of us there made the early morning fire ceremony and later spiritual prayer activity very accessible. Easy check out. Minor issue is no c cards. Japan has an issue re cash cash cash and here you need to have cash. back again sometime for sure.
By Terry
Best part of our trip to Japan
We enjoyed our stay very much. The room was so peaceful and the surrounding area just incredible! Such a special experience to see a Buddhist fire ceremony. The food and onsens were great! We were lucky and both had the onsen to our selves. What a relaxing experience.
By Rebecca
Amazing place
We spent a night here, which was the highlight of our trip to Japan. The monk who received us was very kind. We can say that we were very lucky because we were able to attend an external fire ceremony. The breakfast ceremony also gave us a fantastic experience. This place gives peace, beige. The “shared bath” than the Japanese onsen turned out to be, which was wonderful. Dinner and breakfast were delicious as well. Clear place, everybody settles down here. It’s a wonder this temple.
By Aranka and Billy