VACATIONS at castles and temples in Japan have grown in popularity and given tourists the chance to spend a night as lords, ladies, or even monks.
There are a few distinctive lodging opportunities in Japan that showcase the country's rich cultural heritage and make for a unique experience.
Be it a castle or temple, unique accommodations like these are not just places to sleep, but ways to immerse yourselves in the rich culture and history of Japan.
This year, visitors can look forward to the opening of several unique accommodations, including Fukuyama Castle in Hiroshima Prefecture and Nakatsu Castle in Oita Prefecture.
The Japan National Tourism Organisation Kuala Lumpur Office lists some of the most amazing destinations that offer these extraordinary vacation stays.
OZU CASTLE
Located in Ehime Prefecture, Ozu Castle is the first castle in Japan that allowed guests to stay in the castle tower.
This majestic castle was reconstructed in 2004 using United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation-registered traditional techniques which were revived for the project, and its doors were opened to international guests in 2020.
Discerning guests will be able to experience grandeur atmosphere the way that Sadayasu Kato — the first lord of the domain did in the 1600s — and experience dinner in the style of 17th century lords.
Both the castle and Garyu Sanso, a historic tea house complex, have been declared as Important Cultural Properties of Japan.
HIRADO CASTLE
Just off the coast of Kyushu Island, in Nagasaki Prefecture, lies Hirado Castle, where the historic castle turret Kaiju Yagura is available as a private retreat for those looking to immerse themselves in the culture of Hirado.
Kaiju Yagura was renovated in 2020 and its interiors feature a modern take on Japanese aesthetics with an emphasis on locally sourced natural materials.
Hirado Castle also offers unique cultural experiences, unique cultural experiences, such as iaijutsu, a combative quick-draw sword technique practised by samurais, private meals with a personal chef, and renting an elegant kimono for a tea ceremony at the local Zen temple.
For those looking to experience the spiritual side of Japan, temple stays might be preferred.
ZENKOJI TEMPLE
At Zenkoji — one of Japan's oldest and most important Buddhist temples — guests can participate in a goma prayer (fire ceremony),shakyo (brush meditation) or zazen (seated meditation), as well as attend the temple's daily O-Asaji (morning ceremony).
Located in Nagano Prefecture, it's also well known for shojin ryori (traditional Buddhist cuisine) which is seasonal and based on local fruits and vegetables.
The Nagano city is accessible from Tokyo Station in under two hours by the shinkansen, so it's a great place to visit for those looking for an overnight stay outside of Tokyo.
MIIDERA TEMPLE
Those who prefer private experiences may opt for the temple stay at Miidera Temple, Shiga Prefecture.
The temple has been welcoming everyone from emperors to worshippers for thousands of years, and its 400-year-old quarters are available as a private retreat that offers an immersive experience to connect visitors with Miidera and local culture.
Exclusive dinners served by one of Shiga's top Kaiseki restaurants, Kiyomoto, with shakyo, zazen, and yamabushi (mountain ascetic strolling) available here.
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