Takaoka, Toyama: Shokoji Temple Tour and Shojin Ryori Lunch
Go past the limits of ordinary guests and enjoy a guided tour of Shokoji Temple, then feast on a special edition vegetarian shojin ryori lunch box in this unique experience in Takaoka, Toyama.
Highlights
Behind-the-scenes tour of the temple
Vegetarian lunch box prepared by local celebrity chefs, exclusive to this experience
Enjoy the restored ambiance of a 600-year-old religious and cultural site
10 meals
Experience Details
After 23 years of meticulous restoration, Shokoji temple reopened to visitors and practitioners in 2021. The following year, it was designated a national treasure. Founded in 1471 as the seat of the Honganji school of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, this temple is a prime example of Buddhist worship in Toyama.
This exclusive tour will take you to areas usually closed off to parishioners, such as the Kin-no-ma (Golden Room) and Kyodo sutra hall. Here, you will discover the mysticism and history of Jodo Shinshu monks’ daily rituals. This guided tour includes commentary from an expert of the preservation of Japan’s Important cultural properties. Your guide will give an in-depth look at the temple’s 600 year history and the recent restoration efforts that brought back its former glory.
After your tour of the halls and grounds of Shokoji, you'll enjoy a bento lunch box courtesy of the local farmers and chefs. "Every day, by hand, with nothing extra" is the motto that has earned their food a high reputation throughout Japan. Their crafted bento are a huge hit at events, and this experience offers a one-of-a-kind chance to try a menu specially developed just for participants.
You'll enjoy a vegetarian shojin-ryori lunch box inspired by the 7 wonders of Shokoji temple. Example menu items include chickpea croquettes, vegetable chirashi-zushi, soy milk mayo potato salad, fresh spring rolls and more!
Itinerary:
-Meet your guide at Shokoji Temple in Takaoka, Toyama Pref.
-Enjoy a guided tour of Shokoji and learn about its 600-year history
-After the tour, enjoy a specialty bento box lunch made with local ingredients
Inclusions
Facility tour with commentary
Temple entrance fee
Lunch (Vegetarian Buddhist meal with local vegetables)
Exclusions
Transportation to and from the venue
Meeting Point and Meeting Time
Meet your host directly at Shokoji Temple in Takaoka, Toyama. More detailed information and a Google Maps link will be provided upon booking.
Remarks
Please dress appropriately/respectfully for the temple environment (modest clothing, socks/close-toed shoes)
Please know that the temple is an active religious site with practicing monks.
Tour guests will meet on-location at the temple
Cancellation Policy
Cancel your booking at least 2 days before the experience start time to receive a full refund minus a 3.2% transaction fee.
Experience Location
Takaoka in western Toyama is the second largest city in the prefecture. Know as the "Land of Water," this area is abundant with natural spring water from seven large rivers. During the Edo period, under the Maeda family, the region became known for its impeccable craftsmanship. Popular crafts include copper and lacquerware. The area is also known for its temples, including the beautiful Zuiryuji Temple.
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10 meals
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