Taiyōji Temple — Attraction in Chichibu

It was a wonderful experience to learn more about Buddhism. The monk leading the entire program is an exceptionally kind person who ensures you feel well taken care of. There are also a few volunteers who are attentive and assist with English, making everything more accessible. We had an amazing time engaging in activities such as walking, yoga, meditation, sutra chanting, and sutra copying, as well as enjoying delicious meals. One highlight was the beautiful, atmospheric outdoor onsen that added to the serene experience. We also had the opportunity to engage in conversations with remarkable and open-minded people, which made the experience even more enriching. I definitely recommend this experience. However, please keep in mind that the temple is quite old, and during this time of year, it’s wise to bring some warm clothes as the nights...

What a truly amazing place! We arrived in the afternoon to bitter cold temple with snow on the ground. By breakfast time we were basking in the sun of a beautiful spring day. What a Temple of the Sun this really is! The calm welcome from the wonderful monk was perfectly understated. We were invited to join in Sutra copying, Sutra chanting and Zen meditation. Delicious vegetarian food was served and a wonderful sleep was had on the tatami mats. At ten o'clock at night we sat in the hot, outdoor bath gazing up at the stars. At sunrise we greeted the sun as it came up over the mountains and warmed us as immediately as a heater being switched on. Everything, including the incredibly isolated location, was so beautifully natural and understated. A place visited others can...

I stayed with my family for a night at Taiyoji in July 2017. Jyusokusan (the monk) was so peaceful, friendly, and kind that we really felt at home immediately. We enjoyed shako (calligraphy), Temple-made vegetarian food, walking dogs, zen meditation, and houwa (monk's story telling). Rotenburo (outside onsen) was great too. It was totally off the grid and we had a peaceful time at Taiyoji. We had the precious moments spent in the kitchen helping Jyusokusan prepared the dinner. We will return for sure. Jyusokusan is looking for cleaning volunteers as he has been doing everything from cooking, cleaning, picking/dropping guests at the station and offering speech and meditations. You will be filled...