Ryutakuzenji 宿坊

The perfect place to unwind and recover from jetlag for this female solo traveller heading back from the Arctic to Australia. Tendou picked me up from Takasaki train station, an easy shinkasen trip from Tokyo Central station. On arrival, I felt tension melt away. Birds were singing and inside gentle music was playing. Tendou has some English but I don’t speak Japanese which limited communication a bit but everyone was welcoming, helpful and responsive. I meditated, copied some sutras, bathed, went on walks and on one 15 minute bike ride past the paddy fields, I saw a fox, huge dragonfly, two cranes and a small snake (not poisonous and a sign of financial fortune according to Tendou!) The traditional Japanese dinners were superb and I enjoyed learning about the beautiful Zen Buddhist Samurai temple which has been in Tendou’s family for generations.

I liked the bed on the floor as I wanted a true Japanese experience but be aware it is very firm.

Absolutely beautiful location. Very peaceful, traditional Japanese accommodation. The staff are exceptional. Our room had a private courtyard with onsen.

Some of our party found the futon mats not very comfortable. I suspect because we are just used to western beds.

Very nice room in historical temple place. The staff was very nice and mindful! Thank you (Car is recommended if you want to move around)

What a wonderful place to calm down and take a deep breath. The staff was extraordinary kind and caring, the food (meat and vegetarian option, dinner and breakfast) was fantastic and enjoying the private hot bath while being outside was just best. We even got up early to participate in the morning meditation, which was a wonderful start into the day.