Overview

Gyokuzoin stands on Mount Shigi in Nara Prefecture, near the border with Osaka. According to legend, Prince Shotoku founded the temple more than 1,400 years ago after receiving a vision of Bishamonten—the god of fortune and victory—on this very mountain. Since then, the temple has become Japan’s oldest sacred site dedicated to Bishamonten and remains a powerful place of prayer.

Today, Gyokuzoin continues its role as a working temple while also welcoming travelers who want a deeper experience than an ordinary hotel stay. You won’t just sleep in a room—you’ll take part in living temple life. From early morning rituals to seasonal festivals and quiet moments in the gardens, you’ll find a calm, reflective space grounded in centuries of tradition.

You can attend daily prayer services, walk through halls filled with centuries-old statues, and even join monks in spiritual training activities. The temple sits among ancient forests and overlooks the Yamato Basin, offering panoramic views and changing scenery through all four seasons—from spring blossoms to autumn leaves and winter snow.

This unique setting draws visitors from all over the world, not just for its spiritual history, but for the peaceful rhythm of temple life. Whether you want to reset your mind, reconnect with nature, or learn about Japanese Buddhism firsthand, Gyokuzoin offers an unforgettable stay.

Accommodation

Gyokuzoin offers 40 rooms ranging from private single rooms to large halls for group stays. You’ll find tatami floors, Japanese-style design, and spacious rooms that fit up to 200 people overnight and up to 500 people for rest or group use.

Some rooms overlook the temple grounds. Others are ideal for workshops or ceremonies. All rooms come with a personal safe and Wi-Fi. There are no TVs, so you can enjoy the quiet of the mountain.

Dining

Enjoy a dinner of traditional shojin ryori, Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, with specialties like sesame tofu. If you prefer, you can request a multi-course kaiseki meal instead. Meals are served in a large hall, and you can also request kid-friendly meals.

Onsen and Wellness

Relax in large and medium-sized communal baths. The larger bath fits up to 20 people. After a day of prayer or walking around the temple grounds, take time to soak and unwind.

Guests with Tattoos

You can use the baths, including the large shared facilities, regardless of whether you have tattoos.

Facilities

Gyokuzoin includes large and small meeting halls (up to 85 tatami mats), a tea room, and public baths. The temple also supports lectures, training programs, and other events for up to 250 people.

For meetings or group use, you can borrow whiteboards, microphones, a projector, or screens. The entire facility has Wi-Fi, and the office offers printing and copying services.

Activities

Join the early morning goma fire ritual, held daily in the temple’s main hall. You can also take part in prayer services, meditation, sutra copying, or light cleaning work with the monks. Plan a short visit or book a full overnight training experience.

Explore the temple grounds at night, walk the lantern-lit paths, and take in views of the Yamato Basin, morning mist, and sunrise—all visible only to overnight visitors.

Additional Features

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the property
• Early morning prayer services (reservation required)
• Sutra copying and meditation experiences
• Meals for day visitors and large groups
• Retreat and training programs
• Equipment for meetings and events