2-Day Zenkoji Overnight Tour With Shukubo Temple Lodging

The 2-Day Zenkoji Overnight Tour with Shukubo Temple Lodging in Nagano, Japan, promises an immersive cultural experience. Travelers will explore the renowned Zenko-ji Temple, savor local sake, and stay in a traditional temple lodging. This tour offers a unique blend of spiritual and gastronomic delights, inviting visitors to step into the heart of Japan’s rich heritage. With guided visits and authentic accommodations, the tour ensures a seamless journey through the country’s captivating traditions.

This experience made our article of Best Tours in Nagano: Our 20 Top Picks.

Key Points

• This 2-day tour in Nagano, Japan offers a unique experience of staying in a Shukubo (temple lodging) and exploring the Zenko-ji temple.
• The tour includes guided experiences, such as a tour of Zenko-ji, a fire ceremony, and a sake tasting, along with meals and accommodation.
• The tour has a maximum group size of 10 participants and is recommended by previous travelers, with a price starting from £236.43 per person.
• The tour meets at Nagano Station and includes a stop at Saiko-ji Temple, providing an opportunity to learn about local traditions and customs.
• The accommodation at Ryōshōin in Motoyoshichō, Nagano offers a traditional temple lodging experience, with options to attend the O-Asaji morning service.

Tour Overview

The Zenkoji Overnight Tour is a 2-day experience that takes visitors to Nagano, Japan.

It’s 100% recommended by travelers and priced from £236.43 per person, with a maximum group size of 10.

The tour includes meals, Japanese-style accommodation, guided experiences, and additional activities like a sake tasting.

The meeting point is Nagano Station, and the tour makes a stop at Saiko-ji Temple before lunch.

Travelers can check-in at Ryōshōin, with dinner served between 18:00 and 20:00 and breakfast between 07:30 and 09:00.

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and reserving in advance is recommended to ensure availability.

Inclusions

The Zenkoji Overnight Tour includes several amenities to enhance the experience. The package covers:

1. Meals such as breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

2. Accommodation in a "Shukubo" temple lodging with Japanese-style rooms and futon bedding.

3. Guided experiences including an English-speaking guide, a tour of Zenko-ji, and a fire ceremony.

4. Additional experiences like a guided sake tasting at Yoshinoya and a 12-14g can of "Shichimi" (7 Spice) per guest.

While additional food, snacks, drinks, and entry to other paid attractions at Zenko-ji aren’t included, the tour provides a comprehensive package for an immersive cultural experience.

Meeting and Pickup

Travelers will meet the guide in front of the Information Board across the Shinkansen ticket gates at Nagano Station in Kurita, Nagano, Japan.

The tour includes a stop at Saiko-ji Temple before lunch. This allows guests to experience more of the local culture and history.

The guide will provide all necessary information and directions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable start to the 2-day Zenkoji Overnight Tour. Guests can feel confident that the meeting logistics have been carefully planned to make the experience as seamless as possible.

Accommodation Details

After meeting the guide at Nagano Station, travelers check in at Ryōshōin, located in Motoyoshichō, Nagano, Japan.

The accommodation offers:

1. Dinner served between 18:00 and 20:00.
2. Breakfast served between 07:30 and 09:00.
3. An option to attend the O-Asaji morning service.
4. Japanese-style rooms with futon bedding.

The Zenkoji Overnight Tour provides a unique opportunity to experience traditional temple lodging, known as "shukubo," immersing travelers in the cultural heritage of Nagano.

Accessibility and Additional Info

According to the information provided, the Zenkoji Overnight Tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and it’s located near public transportation.

Travelers can expect to receive their confirmation at the time of booking. Based on 10 reviews, the tour has an impressive rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars.

Due to the tour’s popularity, it’s likely to sell out, so the organizers recommend reserving a spot now for maximum flexibility.

The tour includes several inclusions, such as meals, accommodation, guided experiences, and additional experiences like a sake tasting and a can of "Shichimi" seasoning.

Highlights of the Zenko-ji Temple

As the spiritual heart of Nagano, Zenko-ji Temple captivates visitors with its rich history and architectural grandeur.

The temple’s most notable features include:

1. The main shrine, known for housing one of the first Buddhist statues brought to Japan in the 7th century.

2. The Niomon Gate, an impressive two-story wooden structure adorned with intricate carvings.

3. The underground tunnel, the Okubyo, which allows visitors to "grope in the dark" to find the "key to paradise."

4. The Sanmon Gate, a three-story pagoda-style structure that serves as the entrance to the temple complex.

Guided Sake Tasting at Yoshinoya

Along With exploring the historic Zenko-ji Temple, the Zenkoji Overnight Tour includes a guided sake tasting experience at the renowned Yoshinoya brewery.

Guests will learn about the centuries-old tradition of sake making in Japan and have the opportunity to sample a variety of premium sake.

The expert guide will explain the different flavor profiles and production methods, providing insights into the cultural significance of this beloved Japanese beverage.

This exclusive tasting is a highlight of the tour, allowing visitors to enjoy the rich heritage and artistry of Japanese sake.

Morning Service at the Temple

Guests have the opportunity to attend the O-Asaji morning service at the temple. The ceremony is a centuries-old tradition that offers a profound spiritual experience.

The service includes:

1. Chanting of sutras by the temple monks.
2. Ringing of the large temple bell.
3. Meditation and reflection.
4. An optional opportunity to receive a blessing from the head monk.

After the service, guests can explore the temple grounds and learn about its rich history and cultural significance.

The morning service is a highlight of the Zenkoji Overnight Tour, providing a glimpse into the devotional practices of Japanese Buddhism.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks During the Tour?

According to the tour overview, additional food, snacks, and drinks beyond the provided meals are not included. Travelers are welcome to bring their own food and drinks, but they will not be provided as part of the tour.

Is There a Dress Code for the Temple Visit?

There’s no strict dress code, but visitors should wear modest, respectful clothing when visiting the temple. Casual, comfortable attire is fine, but shorts, tank tops, and revealing outfits should be avoided.

Are Tours Offered in Other Languages Besides English?

The tour offers an English-speaking guide, but it does not explicitly state if tours are available in other languages. Travelers should inquire about language options when booking to ensure their preferred language is accommodated.

Can I Extend My Stay at the Temple Accommodation?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention the option to extend the temple stay. However, guests can likely arrange for additional nights through the tour provider, subject to availability and any additional fees.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

The tour guide allows photography throughout the tour, except during the fire ceremony and other private rituals. Guests are advised to be respectful and avoid disrupting the sacred atmosphere of the temple.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Zenkoji Overnight Tour offers an immersive cultural experience in Nagano, Japan. Guests can explore the historic Zenko-ji Temple, enjoy a guided sake tasting, and experience traditional temple lodging. With authentic Japanese meals and a serene setting, this tour promises an unforgettable journey into Japan’s rich heritage, perfect for small groups seeking a unique and memorable adventure.