妙蓮寺
Myoren-ji, the head temple of the Daihonzan sect of Nichiren Buddhism, is a beautiful, small temple in a quiet neighborhood of Kyoto. It welcomes visitors interested in learning about Buddhism to stay in the guest quarters. Rooms are Spartan, with tatami floors and futon beds, and a shared bathroom divided by gender, but guests are allowed to enjoy the meditation gardens and temple buildings. Originally founded over 700 years ago, there are several features of note, including screen paintings from the Momoyama period and a rock garden designed by the same priest who made the one in Katsura Imperial Villa.
Myoren-ji, Kyoto
There is no bath or shower at the facility, so guests are given tickets to a sento, or bathhouse, in the neighborhood. Chizuko-san, an older, friendly woman with little English, runs the guesthouse almost single-handedly, so she requests that you make reservations at least a week in advance and check in between 6 and 8 pm. She prefers that you stay at least two nights. Meals are not provided, but you are allowed to eat in your room. There are no locks on any of the six guest rooms, so carry your valuables with you. The gate is locked at 9 pm. Guests are requested to join the morning prayers in the main temple at 6:30 am. Reservations can be done by telephone (075-451-3527) or FAX (075-451-3597), but remember that the English is limited. Take the Kyoto City Bus #9 to the Horakawa-Teranouchi stop. It is about 30 minutes from Kyoto Station.
A paid of english-speaking travelers stayed there a few years ago and posted a youtube video of the approach and interior which can serve as a good reference as to what you should expect at Myoren-ji Temple.
Despite the limitations, staying at Myoren-ji is a good experience that will be a memorable part of your trip. The official website is only in Japanese, but has some beautiful photos: http://www.myorenji.jp/
photo by:
Kyoto-Picture
