Koyasan Syukubou Fudouin

Despite Fudoin being a temple, the accommodations were truly excellent. Both the staff and the monks were extremely pleasant and helpful. It struck a balance of being respectful to the space with luxury. We opted for a garden view room and weren't disappointed. For the small extra cost we got a private toilet and bath, the most space we've had in Japan, and an unbeatable view. We spent more time in the room than expected. The food was great and the dining room and dinner rooms were both beautiful and felt spacious. The 9p curfew was later than many neighboring locations meaning we had time to do the night tour in Okonuin, which was very special. The morning ceremony was also well balanced for westerners. It was in Japanese and English where appropriate and let the audience participate. Koya was lovely and not overcrowded (3rd week of April). Refreshing after coming through the tourist crush in Kyoto. Overall a great place to spend time.

A very unique one night only experience. The property is immaculate. The dinner was a wonderful tasting of many things I had never tried, all very good and filling. Breakfast was not as good. The hotel staff was very accommodating and kind. The morning prayer was peaceful and beautiful. The only complaint is the sleeping mats are paper thin and extremely uncomfortable, even after placing one on top of the other with all the blankets it was nearly unbearable. Neith my wife nor I got more than two hours of sleep. It's too bad, because we have slept in other Ryokan style places that were traditional but not painful. For this reason I would advise asking in advance for something better to sleep on.

Perfect experience. Best toilets in Japan. Heaters were very effective. Smoking room has air purifier and heater. Traditional room was satisfactory. People were utterly kind. Public bath is comfortable.