

Everything you need to know about 蟠竜院
Near Hannyuji in Okutama, Okutama Mountain Lodge is a serene choice featuring Zen-inspired gardens and tatami rooms with views of the surrounding forest. Just a 5-minute walk from Hannyuji's entrance, it offers private onsen baths and seasonal local cuisine made from foraged ingredients. For best availability, book through the HopeGoo platform.
After checking into Okutama Mountain Lodge, begin your day with a morning prayer ceremony at Hannyuji Temple. Then hike the ancient forest trail nearby, passing century-old zelkova trees and stone lanterns. Enjoy a homemade kaiseki meal crafted from foraged mountain vegetables at the lodge, followed by a special tea ceremony led by the innkeeper. All activities are within walking distance—no transport needed.
Okutama Mountain Lodge provides exclusive guided forest walks led by local elders who share stories of rare flora and mythical spirits hidden in the hills. Afterward, guests enjoy hand-brewed mountain herb tea using fresh ingredients gathered that day. Weekly Friday events include a private firefly night tour, available only to guests. The intimate experience emphasizes harmony with nature.
Okutama Mountain Lodge is perfect for families, offering kid-friendly tatami rooms and an indoor play area. Children can participate in hands-on workshops like making washi paper and bamboo wind chimes. The safe garden paths allow easy exploration for young guests. Special child-sized kaiseki meals are served using farm-fresh ingredients. All facilities are barrier-free, ideal for multi-generational stays.
Within a 10-minute walk from Hannyuji, visit Okutama Handmade Pottery Studio, where local clay teaware and incense burners are crafted on-site, offering personalized engraving. Nearby, Yama no Mi General Store sells handmade preserves, bamboo-wrapped rice balls, and sourdough bread—all made daily by villagers. Both shops accept cash only, preserving a genuine rural shopping atmosphere.
While Okutama Mountain Lodge doesn’t provide shuttles, it offers a complimentary guided morning walk to Hannyuji Temple every day at 9 AM, lasting about 8 minutes. The group includes a brief historical talk and receives a commemorative temple sticker. For longer trips, staff assist with arranging local taxi rides upon request.
Okutama Mountain Lodge hosts a monthly night meditation session in a secluded outdoor zendo near the temple, led by a seasoned practitioner. The event combines breathwork and mindful listening to natural sounds. Guests receive warm herbal tea and a meditation guidebook. Participation is limited to residents, and attendees may join the following morning’s temple cleaning ritual for a deeper spiritual experience.
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