Kuon-ji Temple, a 750-year-old marvel, beckons visitors to embark on a captivating 3-hour walking tour. This intimate experience, limited to 8 participants, immerses them in the temple’s rich heritage. Guests will enjoy a scenic ride on the Minobu Ropeway, explore the main hall and Soshido Hall, and savor a traditional lunch at the historic Kakurinbo inn. With the option of Japanese or English guidance, this tour promises a memorable blend of culture and nature. What secrets and surprises await those who venture into this centuries-old sanctuary?

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Key Points

This 3-hour walking tour explores the 750-year history of Kuonji Temple, including visits to the main hall and Soshido Hall.
The tour includes a ride on the Minobu Ropeway, providing scenic views from Mount Minobu at 1,153 meters.
A traditional lunch at the historical inn Kakurinbo is included in the tour package.
The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring an intimate experience with live guides available in Japanese and English.
Cancellation policy allows for a full refund up to 8 days in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The 3-hour walking tour of Minobu-san Kuonji Temple includes a ride on the Minobu Ropeway.

It costs $98.36 per person and is limited to 8 participants. Live tour guides are available in Japanese and English. Guests can cancel for a full refund up to 8 days in advance.

The tour explores the 750-year history of Kuon-ji Temple, visiting key sites like the main hall and Soshido Hall. Guests will see 400-year-old weeping cherry trees and enjoy a spectacular view from Mount Minobu at 1,153 meters via the ropeway.

Tour Highlights

Guests can explore the 750-year history of Kuon-ji Temple during the walking tour.

They’ll visit important sites like the main hall housing cultural properties and the Soshido Hall, home to the Grand Palace.

Attendees can see weeping cherry trees over 400 years old, which bloom in spring and are recognized as a power spot.

The tour culminates with a spectacular view from Mount Minobu at 1,153 meters above sea level via the Minobu Ropeway.

This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to learn about the temple’s rich heritage and natural beauty.

Itinerary

The tour begins with meeting at the front of Minobu Station at 9:45 AM, promptly followed by sightseeing from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

Participants will explore the 750-year history of Kuon-ji Temple, visiting important sites like the main hall with cultural properties and Soshido Hall housing the Grand Palace.

After the temple tour, the group will enjoy a traditional lunch at Kakurinbo, a historical inn with 550 years of history, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM.

Inclusions

The tour fee covers the guide fee, transportation from Minobu Station, round-trip fare on the Minobu Ropeway, and lunch at the historical inn Kakurinbo.

This ensures participants can fully enjoy the 750-year history of Kuon-ji Temple and take in the breathtaking views from Mount Minobu without worrying about logistics.

Prices are per person, and availability should be checked for specific dates and times.

Directions are also provided via Google Maps for easy navigation to the meeting point in front of Minobu Station at 9:45 AM.

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Important Information

Prices are quoted per person, and customers should check availability for their preferred dates and times.

Directions to the meeting point in front of Minobu Station are available via Google Maps.

The tour is limited to 8 participants, and a live guide is provided in Japanese and English.

Guests can cancel their reservation for a full refund up to 8 days in advance.

This 3-hour walking tour offers an in-depth exploration of the 750-year-old Kuon-ji Temple and a scenic journey via the Minobu Ropeway, culminating in a lunch at the historic Kakurinbo inn.

History of Kuon-ji Temple

Established in the 13th century, Kuon-ji Temple boasts a rich 750-year history as a renowned center of Nichiren Buddhism. Founded by Nichiren, the temple is considered one of the most important sites in Nichiren’s teachings.

Over the centuries, it has attracted countless devotees seeking spiritual enlightenment. The temple’s main hall and Soshido Hall, both designated as important cultural properties, house significant art and artifacts that reflect the temple’s illustrious past.

Kuon-ji Temple’s natural setting, with its ancient weeping cherry trees, is also recognized as a powerful spiritual site, drawing visitors from far and wide.

Exploring the Main Hall and Soshido Hall

As visitors step through the grand entrance of Kuon-ji Temple, they’re immediately struck by the grandeur of the main hall, one of the key sites on the walking tour.

This National Treasure dates back 750 years and houses:

Priceless cultural properties
Intricate wood carvings and paintings
Impressive architectural features like the distinctive hip-and-gable roof
The awe-inspiring Soshido Hall, which enshrines a massive statue of the Buddhist deity Senju Kannon

Exploring these historic structures provides a glimpse into the spiritual significance and artistic brilliance that have defined Kuon-ji Temple for centuries.

The Breathtaking View From Mount Minobu

After exploring the captivating historical sites within Kuon-ji Temple, visitors are treated to a breathtaking view from the summit of Mount Minobu.

The Minobu Ropeway whisks them 1,153 meters above sea level, revealing a panoramic vista of the surrounding Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park.

On a clear day, the stunning mountainous landscape stretches as far as the eye can see.

This natural wonder, known as a "power spot", offers a serene and rejuvenating experience for all who visit.

The tour culminates in this awe-inspiring moment, leaving a lasting impression on participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Required Attire for the Tour?

There is no specific dress code for the tour. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes are recommended. The tour takes place outdoors, so layers may be necessary depending on the weather conditions.

Are Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated for the Lunch?

The tour operator accommodates various dietary restrictions for the lunch at Kakurinbo. Guests are advised to provide any special dietary needs when booking the tour so the necessary arrangements can be made.

Is There a Restroom Available During the Tour?

Yes, there are restrooms available during the tour. Restroom facilities are located at the Minobu Ropeway station and at the Kakurinbo historical inn where the group has lunch, providing participants with convenient access throughout the tour.

Can We Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, visitors are allowed to take photos during the tour. The tour guide encourages participants to capture the beautiful scenery and cultural sights they’ll encounter throughout the experience.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not offer any discounts for seniors or students. Pricing is a flat rate of $98.36 per person, regardless of age or student status. Group size is limited to 8 participants.

The Sum Up

This captivating 3-hour walking tour of Kuon-ji Temple offers a unique opportunity to take in the temple’s 750-year history. The tour includes a scenic ride on the Minobu Ropeway, visits to the main hall and Soshido Hall, and a traditional lunch at the historic Kakurinbo inn. With English or Japanese guidance, this tour provides an unforgettable exploration of Kuon-ji Temple’s rich culture and breathtaking natural surroundings.