The room is very spacious, and both breakfast and dinner are fresh and delicious. The showers and baths are large and comfortable. Even though I stayed over a busy weekend, I always had the bath to myself. The baths aren’t available during the day, but you can still use the showers. The staff and family who run the lodge are kind and welcoming. I managed with my limited Japanese, but I’m confident they speak English well if needed. Morning prayers start at 7 a.m. and last about 20 minutes, with your name included in the prayer, which was a thoughtful touch. Participation isn’t mandatory, but it’s a meaningful experience. If most guests are non-Japanese speakers, a translator will be provided during the prayer sessions.

Staying at Shukubo Daishinbo in Tsuruoka, Japan, was one of the most enriching experiences of my trip. This 350-year-old temple inn, run by a Yamabushi family, offered me a unique opportunity to connect with Japan's spiritual and cultural heritage in a deeply meaningful way. The location of Shukubo Daishinbo couldn't have been more perfect. Nestled at the base of Mount Haguro, it served as an ideal starting point for exploring the sacred Dewa Sanzan mountains. Each morning, I had the chance to participate in the rituals led by the resident Yamabushi, which was both a serene and enlightening experience. The blend of Shinto and Buddhist practices, known as Shugendo, is something I’d never encountered before, and it gave me a new perspective on spirituality and nature. But what truly made my stay unforgettable was the food. The meals at Shukubo Daishinbo were incredible, reflecting the best of Shojin Ryori, the traditional Buddhist cuisine. Each dish was crafted with care, using local, seasonal ingredients, including wild mountain vegetables. The flavors were delicate yet profound, and every bite felt like a celebration of the region's natural bounty. The connection between the food and the surrounding landscape was palpable, making each meal a deeply meditative experience. The peaceful atmosphere of Shukubo Daishinbo, combined with the warmth and hospitality of the hosts, made me feel like I was part of something truly special. Whether it was joining the morning prayers, hiking up Mount Haguro, or simply relaxing in the tranquil surroundings, every moment spent here was nourishing for both my body and soul. If you're looking to immerse yourself in Japan's spiritual traditions or just want to unwind in a serene and beautiful setting, I can't recommend Shukubo Daishinbo highly enough. It’s more than just a place to stay—it’s an experience that will stay with you long after you leave.

Staying here was a great experience. It was possible to take part in the morning ceremony and immerse oneself in the local Shinto and Shugendo (mountain worship) culture. The food (breakfast and dinner) was great. Some of the best food I've eaten in Japan. The meals are prepared in the Japanese style with many small dishes and are similar to temple cuisine (Shojin Ryori) but include seafood as well. A different meal was prepared each day. The location is ideal to hike up one of the three local holy mountains, Mt. Haguro and visit the shrines along the way and on top of the mountain. The accomodation can be reached by bus. If you come by care it can also be a good base for visiting the other mountains in the region.

This is an authentic temple with prayers every morning by the Buddhist monks. The room was large and spacious. The futons were comfortable and the food amazing

Historical building with a lot of charm. Very close to the start of mount Haguro's ascent. The feeling of being far from the world and in a place of pilgrimage was clear and strong. We had vegetarian temple food and it was delicious: a truly culinary experience. The room was spacious and lovely. If you travel in the fall the house could get a bit chilly but nothing that can't be shaken off by the warm beds, and the very nice shared hot baths! Also very special and fascinating to participate to the morning prayer. They had an interpreter for us during it and it was much appreciated.