Ryokoji Temple: Aso's Hidden Gem You NEED to See!
Ryokoji Temple: Aso's Hidden Gem - My (Slightly Messy, But Absolutely Stunning) Review
Okay, listen up. I just got back from Ryokoji Temple in Aso, and honestly? My brain is still humming. It's not just a temple – it's an experience. And I'm here to spill the (deliciously brewed) tea, the honest-to-goodness, unfiltered review (with maybe a few tangents…sorry, not sorry!).
Accessibility: Navigating the Sacred Grounds (and My Own Clumsiness)
Let's be real. Accessibility matters. And Ryokoji gets it. Wheelchair accessible pathways are a thing. A GOOD thing. I admittedly didn't need a wheelchair myself, but I saw a family navigating the grounds with ease, and it warmed my heart. They even have an elevator! Seriously, bonus points for that. The actual temple itself, with its gentle slopes and thoughtful design, felt remarkably inclusive. There were even those thoughtful little ramps – you notice these things, don't you? I do, because I’m perpetually tripping over my own feet.
Internet - Because Let's Face It, We're All Addicted!
Alright, the digital detox will have to wait! You get Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! (thank God). Internet access – LAN is also a thing if you’re into that old-school wired life. You get Internet services, so you know, the usual. Wi-Fi in public areas too, so you can Instagram your Buddha bowls – no judgment here.
Cleanliness & Safety: Pandemic-Proof Paradise?
Okay, here’s where Ryokoji truly shines. They've clearly put a lot of thought into making guests feel safe. They have a gazillion Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and staff are trained in safety protocol. I noticed they are using Professional-grade sanitizing services so that's a big plus. Plus, you could Room sanitization opt-out available which is neat! The rooms sanitized between stays felt squeaky clean. And if you feel uneasy, they offer to avoid Room sanitization opt-out available . I wouldn't expect anything less, but I was impressed. First aid kit for the clumsy like me who are always hurting themself. Hand sanitizer everywhere. Seriously, even on the prayer beads! Okay, maybe not, but you get the picture. And the all important Safe dining setup and Sanitized kitchen and tableware items are a must in post-pandemic world. Just excellent all around.
Dining, Drinking & Snacking: Fueling the Soul (and My Stomach!)
Oh, the food. Where do I even BEGIN?! Forget your diet, people. Ryokoji’s food is a religious experience in itself.
- Restaurants: Multiple! I didn't hit ALL of them, but the Asian cuisine in restaurant was phenomenal.
- Asian breakfast: Amazing! I'm a sucker for a good miso soup and perfectly steamed rice. It set me for the day perfectly.
- Breakfast [buffet]: A solid spread. Everything was fresh and well-presented.
- Coffee shop: Needed my daily fix. The coffee was strong.
- Desserts in restaurant: Oh sweet goodness. I gained five pounds, I'm pretty sure. Worth. It.
- Poolside bar: Perfect for a sundowner. I actually just sat there, staring into space, feeling utterly at peace.
- Room service [24-hour]: Yes! Because sometimes, you just need a midnight snack of udon noodles in your bathrobe.
- Snack bar: Plenty of options.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: From Zen to…Well, Maybe Not Zen!
Here's where Ryokoji truly excels. It's not just a hotel; it's a retreat.
- Spa: Yes
- Spa/sauna: Yesssss
- Body scrub: Ugh, I wanted to. Next time!
- Massage: Divine. Get one. Seriously. The masseuse found knots I didn't even know I had.
- Sauna: I spent a glorious hour sweating out my sins.
- Swimming pool: Check! A pool with a view, even! The view was…breathtaking. I just wanted to float.
- Steamroom: More sweating, glorious sweating.
Services & Conveniences: They Thought of Everything!
Beyond the obvious, Ryokoji is stocked with all the things you need, and a few things you might not even know you want.
- Concierge: Super helpful. They helped me book a taxi (always a challenge!).
- Currency exchange: Essential
- Daily housekeeping: Always a plus. The rooms are spotless.
- Doorman: They made me feel like royalty.
- Dry cleaning: Didn't use this, but good to know it's there.
- Elevator: I've said it before, but it needs repeating.
- Gift/souvenir shop: I bought a ridiculous amount of incense. No regrets.
- Luggage storage: Convenient
- Safety deposit boxes: I felt like my stuff was safe and sound.
- Terrace: Perfect for sipping morning coffee.
- Car park [free of charge] : Amazing.
For the Kids: Family Friendly (ish – Depends on Your Kids!)
I didn't travel with kids, but Ryokoji has Family/child friendly options.
- Babysitting service
- Kids facilities
- Kids meal
Getting Around: Easy Peasy
- Car park [on-site]: Free and easy.
- Taxi service: The concierge can arrange one for you.
- Airport transfer: They offer this, which makes travel a breeze.
Available in all rooms:
- Air conditioning
- Alarm clock
- Bathrobes
- Bathtub
- Blackout curtains
- Coffee/tea maker
- Complimentary tea
- Desk
- Free bottled water
- Hair dryer
- In-room safe box
- Separate shower/bathtub
- Shower
- Slippers
- Smoke detector
- Telephone
- Toiletries
- Wake-up service
- Wi-Fi [free]
- Window that opens
Room Details – They're All About the Details!
My room? Amazing. The air conditioning was a godsend. The blackout curtains? Perfect for sleeping in. The bed was extra comfy, with an extra long bed! The in-room safe box provided peace of mind. The complimentary tea and free bottled water were lovely touches. Everything was top-notch, and I'm talking a true high-end experience, but in a humble way.
My Biggest "Wow" Moment (No, Really! Don't Skip This!)
Hands down, the highlight (and the one thing I'll remember FOREVER) was the Pool with view. The way the morning sun hit the water. The way the steam was rising. The only sound was the distant chanting – it was truly an out-of-body experience, and I’m not even prone to that kind of thing. Pure, unadulterated bliss. It's the kind of thing you dream about.
What Could Be Better? (Gotta Be Honest!)
Okay, fine. There was ONE tiny hiccup. I, being the klutz I am, managed to spill coffee all over the (perfectly white) bedsheets. I felt terrible. But the staff? They were so gracious, so understanding… they made me feel less mortified than I deserved. The Staff trained in safety protocol definitely extended to coffee-spill-related emergencies, too!
The Verdict: You NEED to Go!
Seriously. Run, don’t walk, to Ryokoji Temple. It’s more than just a place to stay; it's a chance to recharge your soul, eat incredible food, and experience something truly special. The combination of luxury, zen, and absolute cleanliness is unparalleled. Don't hesitate. Just book it.
Here's My (Very Persuasive) Offer:
Tired of the same old boring vacations? Craving an escape that nourishes your body, mind, and soul? Then it's time to discover Ryokoji Temple: Aso's Hidden Gem.
Book your stay NOW and receive:
- A complimentary spa treatment – Choose between a relaxing massage or rejuvenating body scrub! (Because you deserve it!)
- Complimentary bottle of local wine - to take the edge off.
- Exclusive access to the hidden garden tea ceremony.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to:
- Recharge in tranquil surroundings.
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this ain't your sanitized travel brochure. We're going to Ryokoji Temple in Aso, Japan, and honestly, I'm already a little overwhelmed, but in a good way, I think. This itinerary? More like a suggested survival guide. Let's go!
Ryokoji Temple & Aso: A Soul-Searching (and Possibly Pants-Falling-Down-Laughing) Journey
Day 1: Arrival – Whispers of Green and the Wrong Train (Maybe?)
- Morning (Like, REALLY Early): After a flight straight from the pit of despair (aka, a cramped economy seat with a screaming toddler), I land in Kumamoto. Jet lag is already winning. First impressions? Clean. REALLY clean. Like, I could eat off the sidewalks, you know, if I wasn't terrified of the mysterious Japanese street food carts.
- Transportation Catastrophe (Almost): The plan was a scenic train to Aso. The reality? Me, wrestling a suitcase the size of a small car, deciphering a train schedule written in what I think is Japanese. I think I got on the right train. Pray for me. Seriously. If I end up in Osaka, I'm blaming Google Translate.
- Afternoon: Finally (and miraculously) arrive in Aso. The air? Pure, crisp mountain air. Like breathing in a giant, green hug. The landscape is utterly breathtaking. Volcanoes looming, rice paddies glistening, and… sheep. Lots and lots of sheep. I immediately want to befriend them.
- Ryokoji Temple Check-In (Potential Disaster): The booking was seamless. The reality? I might have slightly underestimated the hike up to the temple lodging. My legs are screaming. Seriously, I am pretty sure I burned off like, a thousand calories scrambling up this mountain. I'm already imagining myself face-planting into the perfectly raked gravel garden. Pray I look somewhat presentable when I eventually meet my hosts!
- Evening: Temple Dinner & Contemplation (Or Maybe Ramen and Tears): Dinner is supposed to be a traditional Buddhist vegetarian meal. I'm both terrified and excited. I’m praying it doesn’t involve a lot of seaweed, because, well, let's just say I have a complicated relationship with the ocean's bounty. Afterwards, it's meditation time. I'm envisioning zen-like serenity. Unfortunately, I suspect I’ll be fighting off the urge to nap. Post dinner, I’m going to try and walk around the Temple grounds at sunset. I predict one of two things will happen: 1) I'll find peace, or 2) I'll trip over a root and cry.
Day 2: Temple Life and Aso’s Grandeur – Where Did My Socks Go?!
- Morning: Woke up with a crick in my neck and feeling oddly refreshed. Maybe the constant bowing from last night's dinner was good for the spine. The temple grounds are magical in the morning light, even if I am currently sporting a particularly impressive bedhead.
- Breakfast and The Mysterious Disappearance: I think I am starting to like the food. Maybe. I swear I saw a monk wink at me while I was eating, which, to be honest, was pretty flustering. Oh, and my socks? Gone. Vanished. I'm certain there's a sock-snatching gremlin living in my room.
- Mid-morning: Volcano Hike (The Main Event): Time to tackle Mount Aso! The caldera looming over the landscape and the volcanic peaks are the reason I came to Aso. The hike is… challenging. My lungs are screaming, my camera is clicking, and I'm pretty sure I'm sweating in places I didn't know existed. But wow. The views! The sheer scale of the place is awe-inspiring. I'm seriously considering adopting a mountain.
- Afternoon: Temple Etiquette Mishap (Or, "How I Accidentally Offended a Monk"): I’m pretty sure I botched the tea ceremony session. I think I poured the tea wrong. I think my attempt at polite conversation came across as incoherent mumbling. The monk just stared at me with a look that said, "You have a lot to learn, grasshopper." (I might have imagined the "grasshopper" part.) Definitely a crash course in cultural sensitivity is in order.
- Evening: Onsen Time (Possibly Awkward): Before I can even process all the things I've just done, it is time for the onsen! I have heard it's a transformative experience. I’m pretty nervous (I’m basically a walking disaster). I figure, I'll just blend in, try not to stare, and avoid any awkward encounters involving soap. Wish me luck. (Seriously, send good vibes.)
Day 3: Farewell Aso – And a Promise to Return (With More Socks!)
- Morning: Last breakfast at the temple. Maybe I'll even attempt another bow. I'm almost a little sad to leave. Aso has gotten under my skin..
- Farewell Hike: One last stroll through the temple gardens. I swear, it's like a living painting. I'm actually starting to feel a little bit… zen. Maybe I should take up meditation. Or maybe just bring back more socks.
- Departure: The train station beckons. Time to say goodbye to Aso, to the sheep, and to the little sock-snatching gremlin. I also have this renewed appreciation for quiet and nature in my soul.
- Concluding Thought: Ryokoji Temple and Aso, you're a marvel. Even though I felt clumsy and out of place at times, the experience was unforgettable. I will never forget the breathtaking scenery, the spiritual vibes, and the feeling of being alive. And I will most certainly be back. After I go buy a new set of socks.
Notes, Rambles, and Utterly Unnecessary Observations:
- Food: The food, as I’ve said, is… interesting. I have a newfound respect for tofu.
- Language Barrier: I'm basically communicating through gestures, smiles, and panicked facial expressions. It’s working, somehow.
- Pack: Comfy shoes. Lots of layers. And spare socks. Seriously.
- Overall Vibe: Aso is a place that makes you feel small in the best way possible. It humbles you. It challenges you. And it leaves you wanting more. (And maybe a new pair of socks.)
- Next time: Actually, I'm already planning my return. Next time, I’ll be prepared, I’ll be less awkward and a lot calmer. I might even learn how to properly pour tea. And I'll definitely bring more socks.
There you have it! My potentially disastrous, but hopefully hilarious, journey through Ryokoji Temple and Aso. Wish me luck, and remember – embrace the mess! Because isn't that where the best stories are found?
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Ryokoji Temple: Aso's Hidden Gem You NEED to See! (Or Maybe Not... My Brain's Still Processing)
Okay, so Ryokoji Temple. Let's talk about Ryokoji Temple. I just got back, and my brain is basically a scrambled egg, but in a good way, mostly. Or maybe a confused, slightly-burnt egg. ANYWAY, here's the deal, in FAQ format. Because, you know, that's what you do these days.
1. What's the big deal about Ryokoji Temple? What makes it so "hidden gem-y"?
Well, first off, it's nestled in Aso-Kuju National Park. Think volcanic landscapes, dramatic views, wild ponies (yes, REALLY), and... well, peace, if you manage to block out the internal monologue screaming, "Did I leave the stove on?!" The "hidden" part? It's not plastered all over Instagram like some other temples. You have to, like, actually *look* for it. That instantly gives it an edge. It's not just the temple itself; it's the FEELING. The air is cleaner. The silence... well, it's actually punctuated by the sounds of nature, which is so much better than the usual city hum. And the temple? It's stunning. Simple, elegant, and genuinely feels like a place you could actually center yourself. Assuming you weren't hyperventilating from the climb (more on that later...)
2. Okay, sounds nice. But how do I *get* there? Because I'm already picturing a nightmare journey.
Alright, buckle up, buttercup. Google Maps will be your friend, but be prepared for a bit of an adventure. Public transport? Forget about it unless you're a masochist or on a *very* limited budget and have an eternity to spare. Renting a car is the smart play. The drive is pretty, with winding roads and incredible scenery. But, and this is a big BUT, the last stretch? Well, let's just say my little rental car nearly gave up the ghost. You're talking steep inclines, narrow roads, and hairpin turns that'll make you question your life choices. I got seriously dizzy at one point, and I, someone who claims to be a fairly confident driver! It's doable, though. Just pray you don't meet a tour bus going the other way. Seriously. Send prayers.
Oh, and did I mention parking? It's limited. Arrive early. And by early, I mean, before the sun even *thinks* about rising. Otherwise, prepare to walk a bit, which, after the drive, might send your soul into the abyss… I’m just saying, plan accordingly. Pack snacks. And water. Lots and lots of water.
3. What about the temple itself? Is it worth the potential car-crushing, soul-crushing journey?
YES. Absolutely, unequivocally YES. See, once you actually *get* there (and manage to park without spontaneously combusting from stress), it’s… breathtaking. The main hall has this incredible, minimalist vibe. Clean lines, natural light pouring in... you can almost feel the years of history radiating from the wooden structures. The gardens are serene. I'm not usually one for "zen," but even *I* felt a sense of calm wash over me. Until I noticed the mosquito that took a chunk out of my leg. Seriously, wear bug spray. Especially in summer. But aside from the mosquito situation, wow. It's just… peaceful. And beautiful. You can wander around, take your time, and... breathe. Just breathe. That, in itself, is worth the price of admission, the fuel, and the near-cardiac arrest from the drive.
4. Is there anything *else* to do there besides just stare at the temple and contemplate the meaning of life?
Well, not a ton of activities. But that’s part of its charm. Think of it as a digital detox. You can wander the grounds, explore the surrounding trails (wear comfortable shoes, obviously), and maybe even see a small waterfall or two. The real activity is internal. You are supposed to just… *be*. I tried. I really did. I mean, after the trauma of the drive, I kind of *needed* to just *be*!
They might have some small shops off to the side selling local art or traditional snacks, depending on the season (I didn't see any, but that may have been because my brain was still trying to find a way to deal with the parking….). So, yeah, not a Disneyland-level of entertainment. But that’s the point, right? It’s about escaping the noise.
5. Seriously, what was the drive like? I'm a terrible driver.
Okay, let's be honest. It was… intense. Picture this: You're slowly inching your way up a narrow mountain road, the car groaning with every meter. The drop-offs are… significant. My hands were so sweaty I could barely grip the steering wheel. There was one point where I swear the car actually started sliding backwards. I nearly screamed. My travel buddy (who, bless their soul, remained miraculously calm) gripped the dashboard, muttering things like, "Just breathe… just breathe…" It felt a bit like a cross between a real-life video game and a near-death experience. If you're a nervous driver, consider hiring a driver. Or, you know, taking a boat. (Just kidding, there are no boats.) Seriously, think carefully. It will truly test your limits. But, on the other hand, I made it. And so can you!
6. Any tips for visiting? I NEED to know.
Okay, listen up, travel warriors! Here's the lowdown:
- **Go early** (I cannot stress this enough). And by early, I mean *ridiculously* early. Beat the crowds, beat the parking nightmares, and beat the heat.
- **Pack snacks and drinks**. Remember that whole "near-death experience" drive? Yeah, you'll need fuel.
- **Wear comfortable shoes** (duh!). You'll be doing a bit of walking. And the trails can be uneven.
- **Bring bug spray**. Seriously, the mosquitoes are relentless. I'm still scratching.
- **Take it slow**. Don't rush. Just… breathe. Appreciate the scenery. And maybe bring some good music to chill out. Or a book. Or a therapy buddy.
- **Be prepared for the drive**. Mentally prepare yourself. And maybe pop a motion sickness tablet (me, personally, I need a whole cocktail of relief and mental fortification).
- **Respect the space**. It's a temple. Be mindful of the atmosphere and the other visitors.
- Oh, and one last thing: **be prepared to be utterly, completely, and wonderfully blown away.** It's worth it. Even with the drive... even with the mosquitos. Even if I still feel like I may have lost a few years of my life on thoseHotel SafariRyokoji Temple Aso Japan
Ryokoji Temple Aso Japan
