As has been written previously, the temple has been run by the same family for 600 years. The chief priest, Tendo Akitsuki, is the 35th generation of the once samurai family (the kanji for "samurai" is a person and a temple). The temple is extremely well-kept, with a beautiful carp pond where one can see at least three jinmen koi (carp with human-like faces). To stay here is unlike other temple stays. The guest house is quite impressive and, again, very well-kept. On arrival, Akitsuki-sensei stood quite patiently whilst we unloaded our baggage from the car, and then led us into the grand entrance. We had two of the three rooms available. Both were quite spacious and everything looks quite new. The tatami mats were spotless (even after we left!). Coffee, teas and snacks were available free of charge in the bar area, which is open all day. Beer, spirits, sake are all available on an honor system at very reasonable pricing. Dinner was inexpensive, at just 2,500 yen per person and consisted of Gunma beef sukiyaki and tempura. My two-year old grandson's meal was free. After dinner we went to the bar area where Akitsuki-sensei entertained us for a couple of hours until it was time for him to leave. We stayed on drinking and talking to a couple who had taken the third room. For those interested, there is a zazen (meditation) session from around 6.30 am. We didn't take part but my daughter was disappointed to have missed it. She will certainly take part on our next visit. Breakfast was at 7.45 and we left by 9 to visit Haruna Jinja. As a note, bicycles are available, again free of charge, for those wishing to explore the surrounding area, and I understand you can be picked up from the station if you go by train. We were sorry not to have seen Akitsuki-sensei again before we left. He is friendly and humorous, as are the staff (family, I would assume). A place to definitely revisit.
This is a true gem. First time staying at a temple and it exceeded all my expectations. Monk Tendou-san’s family has managed it for over 600 years. The history and stories are amazing. We started the day off with some zazen meditation and ended the days with a wonderful dinner and chatting late into the night over drinks. Try it - you won’t be disappointed.
