Partially, tattoos are accepted at Temple Lodging Shukubo Kakurinbo, but only in private baths—not public bath areas.
Kakurinbo (宿坊 覚林坊) offers a transcendent blend of spiritual heritage and authentic hot spring bathing, nestled at the foot of sacred Mount Minobu in Yamanashi Prefecture. For over 550 years, this historic temple lodging has served as a sanctuary for pilgrims and travelers seeking both cultural enrichment and natural rejuvenation. As a sub-temple of Kuonji—the headquarters of the Nichiren Buddhist sect—Kakurinbo uniquely combines ceremonial traditions with the comfort of thermal waters sourced from Minobusan's only hot spring. The property's carefully preserved architecture and gardens create an atmosphere where ancient wisdom and natural healing converge in perfect harmony.
Fully Tattoo-Friendly: This onsen welcomes tattooed guests without restrictions. You can enjoy all public and private baths without needing to cover your tattoos, regardless of size or design.
- Spiritual-Thermal Fusion: Japan's rare combination of authentic temple lodging with genuine onsen waters
- Historic Immersion: 550-year heritage with cultural treasures including a Muso Kokushi-designed garden
- Authentic Buddhist Experience: Participate in morning prayers and meditation with resident monks
- Architectural Diversity: Choose between traditional temple rooms or the 90-year-old restored Guest Villa Ebisuya
- Culinary Discovery: Experience shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine) prepared with local mountain ingredients
- Cultural Workshop Access: Engage in kimono wearing, washi paper-making, and seasonal traditional activities
- Mount Fuji Connection: Unique helicopter access for aerial views of Japan's most iconic mountain
Onsen Facilities & Amenities
Bathing Experience & Onsen Etiquette
At Kakurinbo, the bathing experience transcends mere relaxation to become a mindful ritual. The alkaline-rich thermal waters drawn from Minobu's exclusive hot spring source flow into meticulously crafted ceramic baths from Saga Prefecture and circular hinoki wood tubs that release a gentle cypress aroma when filled. The therapeutic 40°C (104°F) waters are known for their skin-rejuvenating properties and muscle-soothing benefits. At Guest Villa Ebisuya, private indoor and outdoor baths offer intimate communion with nature as you soak while gazing upon forested mountain vistas—creating a perfect balance of physical comfort and spiritual contemplation.
Prices & Ticket Options
- Main Temple Rooms: ¥25,000–¥40,000/night (including traditional meals)
- Ebisuya Villa: ¥50,000–¥70,000/night (private onsen included)
- Meditation Experience: ¥3,000 (guided session with resident monk)
- Cultural Workshops: ¥2,500–¥5,000 (varies by activity)
- Shojin Ryori Lunch: ¥3,500 (reservation required)
Note: Prices may vary by season. Day-use onsen options are not available—accommodation booking required.
Opening Hours
Guest Reviews from Tattooed Travellers
✈️ Tokyo Haneda Airport → 🚅 2h Shinkansen to Shinfuji Station → 🚌 1h bus to Minobu → 🚖 10min taxi to Kakurinbo
🚅 Shinjuku Station → 🚌 3h highway bus to Minobu Station → 🚖 10min taxi to Kakurinbo
🚗 Mount Fuji Five Lakes → 1.5h drive via Route 300 → Minobu (free parking available)
Map
Booking & Contact Information
Advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially during cherry blossom (April) and autumn foliage (November) seasons. English-language booking support is available through their website.
🌐 Website: kakurinbo.jp/en/
📞 Phone: +81 556-62-0005
📍 Address: 3955 Minobu, Minobu-cho, Minamikoma-gun, Yamanashi 409-2524, Japan
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Temple Lodging Shukubo Kakurinbo
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