2-Day Zenkoji Overnight Tour With Shukubo Temple Lodging

Exploring the tranquil heart of Japan, the 2-Day Zenkoji Overnight Tour offers travelers a unique opportunity to enjoy the country’s rich cultural heritage. From guided temple visits to traditional fire ceremonies and sake tastings, this all-inclusive experience promises an unforgettable journey. But the real draw lies in the shukubo temple lodging, where guests can savor the serene ambiance and partake in ancient rituals. What secrets will this immersive experience unveil?

Key Points

• This 2-day tour in Nagano, Japan, offers an immersive experience exploring Zenko-ji temple and participating in cultural activities like a fire ceremony and sake tasting.
• Guests stay in a Japanese-style shukubo temple accommodation, with meals, guided activities, and entry to paid attractions at Zenko-ji included in the $292.68 per person price.
• The tour has a maximum of 10 travelers and a 100% traveler recommendation based on 10 reviews, ensuring a personalized and high-quality experience.
• The tour includes transportation, with the group meeting at Nagano Station and visiting Saiko-ji Temple before arriving at the temple accommodation.
• The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with convenient access to public transportation, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

Tour Overview

This 2-day Zenkoji Overnight Tour offers travelers a unique opportunity to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Nagano, Japan.

Based on 10 reviews, the tour has a 100% traveler recommendation. Priced from $292.68 per person, the tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers.

Included are meals, Japanese-style accommodations at a shukubo temple, guided activities like a tour of Zenko-ji, a fire ceremony, and sake tasting.

Travelers will be picked up at Nagano Station and have the option to attend an O-Asaji morning service before departure.

Inclusions

The 2-Day Zenkoji Overnight Tour includes a variety of amenities to enhance the experience.

Travelers will enjoy meals like breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The lodging is a Japanese-style room with futon bedding at a shukubo temple.

Activities include a guided tour of Zenko-ji, a fire ceremony, and a sake tasting at Yoshinoya. Each guest also receives a 12-14g can of Shichimi (7 Spice) and entry to paid attractions at Zenko-ji.

Optionally, guests can attend the O-Asaji morning service. With these inclusions, the tour provides an immersive cultural experience in Nagano, Japan.

Meeting and Pickup

Travelers will meet the guide at the large Information Board across the Shinkansen ticket gates at Nagano Station.

The tour includes a stop at Saiko-ji Temple before lunch. The guide will be waiting at the designated meeting point to greet the group and ensure a smooth start to the tour.

From there, the group will board transportation and head to the first attraction. Travelers can look forward to an immersive experience, exploring the historic Zenko-ji and participating in a fire ceremony and sake tasting, all while enjoying the hospitality of a shukubo temple lodging.

End Point

After the guided tour and activities, travelers will check-in at Ryōshōin, located at Motoyoshichō-498 in Nagano.

Dinner is served between 18:00-20:00, and breakfast is available the next day from 07:30-09:00. There’s also an option to attend the O-Asaji morning service.

The tour ends here, with travelers free to explore Nagano further or depart.

The accommodation is a Japanese-style room with futon bedding at a shukubo temple lodging, providing an authentic cultural experience.

Accessibility and Additional Information

Wheelchair and stroller users can easily join this tour, as the locations and surfaces are accessible. The tour also runs near public transportation for added convenience. Travelers can look forward to receiving confirmation of their booking right away. And with the free cancellation option up to 24 hours before the start, there’s flexibility to adjust plans as needed. Take a look at the key details below:

Item	Detail
Confirmation	Received at booking
Cancellation	Free up to 24 hours before start
Payment	Reserve now, pay later available
Accessibility	Wheelchair and stroller friendly

Exploring Zenko-ji Temple

The centerpiece of this tour is the iconic Zenko-ji Temple, one of Japan’s most renowned religious sites.

Visitors will explore its impressive architecture, including the grand main hall and the iconic pagoda. The guided tour will explore the temple’s rich history and significance, dating back to the 7th century.

Travelers will have the chance to witness the fire ceremony, a captivating ritual that has been practiced for centuries.

Plus, they’ll enjoy a sake tasting at the nearby Yoshinoya brewery, providing a deeper understanding of Japan’s revered tradition of sake making.

Fire Ceremony and Sake Tasting

As visitors explore the grounds of Zenko-ji Temple, they’ll have the chance to witness the captivating fire ceremony, a ritual that has been practiced for centuries.

Held in a sacred space, the ceremony features:

1. Monks in ornate robes carefully tending to a roaring fire.
2. Rhythmic chanting that fills the air, creating an ethereal atmosphere.
3. Guests offered the opportunity to toss sacred herbs into the flames, symbolizing their wishes and prayers.
4. A sake tasting that follows, allowing visitors to savor the local flavors and traditions.

This immersive experience offers a glimpse into Zenko-ji’s rich cultural heritage.

Shukubo Temple Lodging Experience

After exploring the grand Zenko-ji Temple, travelers enjoy the serene Shukubo temple lodging experience. They’re greeted by the calming atmosphere of the ryokan-style accommodations, featuring traditional Japanese-style rooms with futon bedding. Guests can look forward to a delicious multi-course dinner and breakfast, served in a tranquil dining area.

Amenities	Description
Accommodations	Traditional Japanese-style room with futon bedding
Meals	Multi-course dinner and breakfast
Activities	Optional morning O-Asaji service
Atmosphere	Serene and tranquil

The Shukubo temple stay offers a chance to unwind, connect with local culture, and experience the peaceful rhythm of temple life.

Since You Asked

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour provider has specified that it is only for human travelers, and bringing pets is not permitted due to the accommodations and activities involved.

Do I Need a Visa to Participate in the Tour?

Travelers on this tour don’t need a visa if they’re from countries that have visa-free access to Japan. However, it’s always best to check visa requirements with the appropriate authorities before booking any international travel.

Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?

The tour is available in English. While it doesn’t explicitly state other language options, travelers should inquire about availability of guides in their preferred language when booking the tour.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

The tour’s itinerary can be customized to suit your preferences. Though the core activities are fixed, the guide can accommodate special requests, like adjusting the schedule or focusing on specific interests, within reason and availability.

What Is the Dress Code for the Temple Stay?

The dress code for the temple stay is typically casual and respectful. Visitors should wear comfortable, modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Yukata robes may be provided for guests to wear during their stay.

The Sum Up

Enjoy Japanese culture on this 2-day journey to Zenko-ji. Enjoy the serenity of shukubo temple lodging, witness a mesmerizing fire ceremony, and savor local sake. This tour provides an authentic experience, from participating in the O-Asaji morning service to taking home a flavorful souvenir. Discover the tranquility of Japan and create lasting memories during this enriching Zenkoji Overnight Tour.