Shojin Ryori Lunch in 1200-Year-Old Ekoin Temple (Wakayama)

Delve into centuries of culinary traditions in Ekoin, a Buddhist temple nestled amidst the lush mountains of Koyasan, Wakayama. With a mesmerizing history spanning over 1,200 years, this revered temple, enshrining Buddhist deities of Amida-Nyorai and Bishamonten, provides the setting for a unique lunch experience where you can sample traditional Buddhist cuisine (shojin ryori). Gaze out at the peaceful, lush temple garden as you prepare for a meal unlike any other. The feast that awaits you is a testament to the time-honored art of shojin ryori. Known for its extensive use of fresh ingredients like vegetables, seaweed, legumes and tofu, this cuisine is free of animal products, making it vegetarian and vegan. Traditionally, five cooking methods, five flavors and five colors are used to create a harmonious and delicious meal consisting of several dishes. Let your senses be enveloped by a captivating shojin ryori feast, artfully presented to blend colors, flavors and textures. You'll enjoy your meal in a traditional space overlooking the temple garden as your host explains the food contents in English to deepen your understanding of this culinary tradition. A gluten-free option can also be prepared upon prior request (see Options below). Immerse yourself in ancient Japanese food traditions in this shojin ryori lunch in Ekoin Temple, Wakayama, where you can connect to a traditional culinary heritage and bask in the temple's serene surroundings.