- Summary
Minobu-san Kuon-ji Temple is a sacred site with a history of over 800 years as the head temple of Nichiren Buddhism. Through the Shukubo(temple stay) experience at this sacred site, we offer a unique retreat program that blends traditional Japanese spiritual culture with modern wellness elements. Based on the rich natural environment located at the foot of Mt. Fuji and spirituality based on the teachings of Nichiren Shoshu, the program aims to purify and revitalize the body and mind.
1. spiritual practice in the tradition of Nichiren Shoshu
o Authentic experiences such as participation in the service, sutra copying, Dharma talks, and chanting
o Reinterpretation of the teachings as teachings that can be applied to modern life
2. wellness experiences utilizing the natural environment
o Meditation in a special environment with a view of Mt.
o Natural therapy utilizing the rich forests of Mt.
3. enrichment of cultural elements
o Nichiren Shoshu’s unique vegetarian cooking experience and classes
o Experiencing traditional crafts to promote concentration and creativity
4. well-balanced program structure
o Balance of spiritual practice and physical activity
o Group experiences and time for individual reflection
While the program has a religious background, it is open to participants of all religions and is suitable for both domestic and international travelers seeking traditional Japanese spiritual culture. The serene environment of Mt. Minobu provides an ideal place for self-reflection away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
- Description
1. spiritual practice
– Participation in Morning session: Experience Nichiren Shoshu sutra reading and meditation.
– Shakyo Experience: Practice of concentration and silence as you copy the writings of Nichiren Shoshu
– Dharma Talk Session: Buddhist wisdom that can be applied to modern life by a Nichiren Shoshu priest
– Shingon Meditation: Concentration and purification of consciousness through chanting Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo
2. physical practices
– Mt. Minobu Trail Walking: Meditative walking around the temple grounds and surrounding mountain paths
– Morning Sun Worship Yoga: sunrise yoga session in the temple gardens
– Zen Bodywork: physical exercises that focus on the harmony of breath and movement
– Herbal baths: bathing with local medicinal herbs and knowledge of herbal medicines
3. cultural experiences
– Nichiren Shoshu vegetarian cooking class: Cooking practice using traditional Nichiren Shoshu diet and local ingredients
– Traditional craft session: Experience local traditional skills such as bead making and Japanese paper crafts
– Dialogue with Monks: Small-group question and answer sessions with monks
– Prayer experiences: Opportunities to participate in special prayer ceremonies
4. connection with nature
– Meditation with a view of Mt. Fuji: Practice in a special meditation spot with a view of Mt.
– Star gazing: Meditation under the stars in the temple grounds at night
– Early morning forest bathing: A nature experience that opens the senses in the forests of Mt.
– Seasonal flower observation: Observing seasonal plants and learning about the cycles of nature
- Programs
Day 1
・Meet around noon for lunch Agricultural Cafe ZENCHO Houtou pasta (veggie) lunch
・Change into costumes. White robe, hats, and walking sticks provided.
・Walk around Mt. Minobu, San-mon gate, mausoleum, Bodai-tei (287 stone steps), etc.
・Check-in at Kakurinbo
・Shodai Gyo
・Hatha Yoga
・Dinner Shoujin ryouri (Vegetarian meal)
・Festival experience
・Sleep
※Shodai Gyo is a traditional practice of Nichiren Shoshu, which aims to harmonize the mind and body and become one with the Buddha through chanting of the Buddhist chanting.
Characteristics of Shodai Gyo
– Monks and the general public can perform the practice without distinction.
– Incorporates meditation and chanting of the chanting of the Buddhist chanting theme to the sound of drums and other instruments.
– It helps to calm the mind and body, and to achieve peace of mind.
– It can also relieve stress.
– To express gratitude to Buddha and God, and to pray for world peace, personal offerings, and requests.
Day 2
・Meet at the entrance at 4:45 a.m. Participate in morning meditation at Mt.
・Special visit
・Breakfast
・Make lunch box (Omusubi Inari lunch box)
・Climb Mt. Minobu (white clothes, hats, walking sticks)
・Special prayer at Shichinkaku (inner sanctuary)
・Ropeway down the mountain
・Learn to write calligraphy (you can make a hanging scroll to take home)
・Dinner
・Gagaku (traditional Japanese court music) performance
・Meditation
・evening visit to the temple
・Going to bed (sleep)
Day 3
・Morning yoga
・Breakfast
・Chanting
・Lunch of rice topped with vegetarian tempura
・Check out
