TLDR: Highlight of our trip. Especially if you’re vegan/vegetarian, some of the best food we ate in Japan.
My wife and I just came back from 2 weeks in Japan. Decided to spend the weekend in between Tokyo/Kyoto at Kakurinbo (https://kakurinbo.jp/) since we were looking for something off the beaten path and avoid the insane crowds at some more popular places. Booked it based on some reddit threads and google reviews, but was a bit nervous initially. While it was a process getting there (2 trains, some last minute JR train ticket confusion etc), it was only 2ish hours from Shinkjuku and this ended up being the highlight of our trip.
First off, the location is stunning. Kakurinbo is hidden away on the top of Mt. Minobu near a large Buddhist temple complex. Absolutely peaceful with monks walking around , stunning views, blossoming trees, and you can even see Mt. Fuji. from the top. If you are looking to escape the craziness of the cities and have a nature get away, this is it.
Second, the staff and facilities were terrific. It used to be housing for traveling monks so all the rooms are traditional with Tatami mats and shared bathrooms, but it was extremely clean and beautiful. Koi ponds Japanese gardens surround the facility. The highlight was definitely the 100% vegan food they serve here. Breakfast and dinner are included and seriously some of the best food we’ve ever eaten. The staff were also incredibly thoughtful and kind.
Lastly, you can get a taste of what buddhist temples are actually like. They encourage you to get up early to experience the ringing of the bells and morning prayer w/ the Monks at 6am while the sun rises. It was straight out of a movie, but we attended morning prayer at the temple and the monks welcomed us happily. It was all so surreal.
All in all the entire experience was magical. We left feeling like it was all a dream and came back to the harsh reality of crowds and annoying tourists in Kyoto. Disclaimer, if you are looking for pure luxury and wanting to be pampered, this is not for you (don’t get me wrong, I wanted that vibe and we got it at Momijiya (https://www.momijiya.jp/en/) in Kyoto). This is for people who want something a little different, not Instagram highlights.
Anyway, had to write a review since it was so great, would strongly recommend. Happy to answer any questions folks might have.
by desai2424