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Stay at Murakami Kannon-ji Villa, a meticulously restored traditional Japanese townhouse offering serene views of the Kannon-ji Temple grounds and its iconic bell tower. Guests enjoy complimentary tea ceremony sessions and private guided tours exploring the temple’s centuries-old wood carvings and sacred statues. Located just a 3-minute walk from the temple entrance, this boutique retreat embodies rural Niigata tranquility. Book through the HopeGoo app for exclusive seasonal rates.
Near Kannon-ji Temple, participate in the morning "Bell Chanting Ceremony" at 6 AM, where visitors ring the temple’s ancient bell to mark dawn. Just 100 meters away, the historic Murakami Old Town hosts a handmade washi paper workshop—learn to craft traditional kōzo paper using techniques passed down for generations. Some nearby guesthouses offer curated tea ceremony and calligraphy packages, providing immersive insight into Echigo culture. All experiences can be reserved via the HopeGoo platform.
Hotels like Murakami Kannon-ji Villa and Hokuriku no Yado Yamafu offer complimentary shuttle services to Murakami City Center, Niigata Station, and key sights daily. Within a 5-minute walk lies the Taisho-era Heritage Park, while a 10-minute stroll leads to the scenic Murakami River Trail, perfect for cycling or leisurely strolls along cherry blossom-lined paths. Many properties also provide bicycle rentals, enabling guests to explore rural landscapes at their own pace. Use the HopeGoo app to check schedules and book transportation.
Murakami Kannon-ji Villa features specially designed tatami-family rooms with child-safe flooring and barrier-free bathrooms. The hotel hosts monthly "Little Monk Days," where children dress in miniature robes, participate in simple sutra chanting, and craft wish lanterns. Nearby, Murakami Children’s Nature Garden offers outdoor ecology walks and plant printing workshops. All activities are included in select packages and can be booked seamlessly through the HopeGoo app.
Hokuriku no Yado Yamafu is ideal for photographers, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the Kannon-ji Temple at sunrise and sunset—especially stunning during cherry blossom season. The hotel provides a dedicated photography corner with tripods and professional lighting equipment for rent. Weekly "Temple Light Nights" guided tours led by experienced photographers help capture the temple’s silhouette under soft evening illumination. Equipment and sessions are available for HopeGoo via the HopeGoo app.
Murakami Honke Dining Hall, located directly across from the Kannon-ji Temple gate, has been family-run for over 70 years, serving fresh Echigo yuba tofu and sake-paste grilled fish made with locally sourced ingredients. The semi-open-air terrace offers panoramic views of the temple garden while dining. Some nearby lodgings, like Murakami Kannon-ji Villa, provide in-room dinner delivery for an intimate culinary experience. Reserve your table through the HopeGoo app to avoid wait times.
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