A Deep Dive into Japanese Culture at Enman-in Monzeki Temple

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A Deep Dive into Japanese Culture at Enman-in Monzeki Temple

Experience Japanese culture in a special space that overlooks a famous garden.

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Enman-in Temple in Otsu, Shiga is a Monzeki Buddhist temple with over 1,000 years of history. Monzeki refers to temples of high standing that have been connected to the Imperial family since ancient times, and these are only 17 of these precious locations in the whole country. How would you like to experience various aspects of Japanese culture in a graceful space at a historic Buddhist temple?

See an experience report for this facility!

Photos

  • White sand is spread out in front of the large entrance to the Shinden hall, and a boundary made from green bamboo is set up nearby.

    White sand is spread out in front of the large entrance to the Shinden hall, and a boundary made from green bamboo is set up nearby.

  • The accommodation facility for visitors on the grounds called "Sanmitsuden" is a convenient base for sightseeing that is also close to Kyoto and Lake Biwa.

    The accommodation facility for visitors on the grounds called "Sanmitsuden" is a convenient base for sightseeing that is also close to Kyoto and Lake Biwa.

  • Mii Garden has been called a work of art by Soami from the Muromachi period.

    Mii Garden has been called a work of art by Soami from the Muromachi period.

  • Turn your attention to the sounds you hear as you focus your gaze on a single spot.

    Turn your attention to the sounds you hear as you focus your gaze on a single spot.

  • Breathing is what is most important. Slowly continue a process of inhaling for 5 seconds and exhaling for 10 seconds.

    Breathing is what is most important. Slowly continue a process of inhaling for 5 seconds and exhaling for 10 seconds.

  • The chief priest gives thorough explanations, so ask him a question if there is anything you don't understand.

    The chief priest gives thorough explanations, so ask him a question if there is anything you don't understand.

  • The aim of the game "tosenkyo" originally played by nobles is to hit a target by throwing a small folding fan.

    The aim of the game "tosenkyo" originally played by nobles is to hit a target by throwing a small folding fan.

  • Participating in a tea ceremony allows you to learn how to make tea, as well as partake in matcha green tea and Japanese confections.

    Participating in a tea ceremony allows you to learn how to make tea, as well as partake in matcha green tea and Japanese confections.

  • Every month on the second Sunday and on the 28th, you can view a Goma Buddhist memorial service.

    Every month on the second Sunday and on the 28th, you can view a Goma Buddhist memorial service.

Reviews

4
  • Dylan

    The vegetarian dinner was delicious and would recommend it to anyone who like me was skeptical of what vegetarian sashimi could be. The zazen experience was also eye opening if not a little chilly!

  • LaurierTiernan

    Meditating with the head (?) monk was an honor and a dream come true. The dinner and breakfast were fantastic too.

  • socketjester

    The food was outstanding! I did not expect a completely vegetarian dinner to taste so good. The room was very spacious and comfortable. The morning ceremony and meditation were a unique experience for me. I had a wonderful time!

  • unbeaten japan

    I think the food was delicious.
    The Buddhist priest here is very cordial, the chanting in the early morning & the experience of real meditation was enlightening.

Experience information

Name of facility
Honzan Enman-in Temple
Name of experience
Relish Japanese Cultures
Address
33 Onjojicho, Otsu City, Shiga
Hours
9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Workshops: First group: 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., second group: 1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
*The workshops require a reservation.
Closed
Open every day
*The tea ceremony workshop is only on Saturday
Estimate
1 program: 2,450 yen, 2 programs: 4,600 yen
*Consult us for the kimono wearing fee
Accepted payment methods
JCB, VISA, Mastercard, DC, UFJ NICOS, American Express, Diners Club
Number of guests accepted (groups)
2 to 30 people
Telephone number
077-522-3690
Multi-language support
Available
Official Website
Official Website (English)