"Idea: Let's stay at a temple!" ~ My Best Shukubo in Kyoto ~ Since elementary school, I have been taken to stay at temples. Yes, I didn't go because I wanted to, but rather because I was "taken" there. Near my hometown of Uzumasa, there are many shukubos associated with temples such as Myoshinji and Ninna-ji. I was taken to stay there for events organized by the local community or other occasions. As a child, I had no interest in the vegetable-centered, bland meals, and above all, waking up early to perform rituals, copy sutras, or meditate was nothing but a chore. [Visit Information] It was around 2006 when I stayed at a temple upon the insistence of a friend who wanted to stay there when returning to Kyoto. [Number of Visits/First Visit] One visit. It was my first visit at that time. [Price] I think it was around 7,000 yen for one night with two meals included. (Note: A recent source mentioned it as 8,000 yen.) 1. The most important thing I want to convey about this place: Warm hospitality, delicious shojin cuisine. The surrounding scenery and the gentle sense of time were particularly good. 2. My impressions of the taste: Although it's been about 10 years, the various fresh vegetables that were likely locally sourced had a unique taste that reflected the quality of the Ohara region's soil. Apart from rice and soup, about 10 dishes were served. I remember being particularly impressed by the tempura of mountain vegetables. There were vegetables, yuba, konnyaku, and more. The pickles were also meticulously made in the style of "Kyoto tsukemono." From tea to tea sweets, everything tasted satisfying. 3. My impressions of the service and hospitality: I received warm and courteous service, possibly from the head priest or vice head priest. I regretted not knowing about such shukubos before, as I would have had more opportunities to stay at temples. 4. The atmosphere of the place: Located behind Sanzenin, it feels like a climb up the mountain. The rooms, considering it's a shukubo, were clean and comfortable, with a 10-tatami mat size traditional Japanese room with a veranda. It felt like the rooms were connected to the adjacent ones. You can enjoy a luxurious moment while looking out at the garden. 5. Cost performance: Considering the scenery, atmosphere, service, and taste, it seemed reasonably priced. 6. Other miscellaneous thoughts: Participation in rituals and sermons is optional. You can also experience zazen and sutra copying. Even people from Kyoto sometimes stay in Kyoto. From rooms costing over 50,000 yen per night at Arashiyama Benkei to more affordable options within walking distance of Kyoto Station like Hotel Rejoice, there are various choices. However, shukubos still hold special memories. In the genre of "Ryokan/Hotel" on Tabelog, there are few listings for "shukubo," but there are many shukubos in Kyoto known for their delicious cuisine. I hope this review, although a bit dated, will be helpful. (Author: Kyonatsushuusora, 2016.11.16) (First review, 441st listing) (New registration) (Note: Photos will be added later.)