Shigain Monzeki Temple is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience a taste of traditional Japan, and honestly, I fell in love with this location right away.

It is one of the few remaining ancient Monzeki Temples (temples that initially had strong ties with the imperial family) in Japan and is open to visitors. This particular Temple had been used as a residence by the head priests of the Enryaku-ji Temple (the one on top of the Mt. Hiei). It even has one of the lamps with the Eternal Dharma Light that was lit over 1200 years ago by the Buddhist monk and founder of Enryaku-ji Temple - Saicho (Dengyo Daishi).

This Temple is truly amazing for lots of reasons - it has an amazing and authentic atmosphere with narrow dimly lit corridors, lots of really cool exhibits (unique paintings, suits of Armor, and other artifacts), and a small but beautiful garden where for an extra fee you can even feed the koi (Japanese carps).

But here is the main reason why this Temple is truly a hidden gem (at least for me 😅) - here you can practice Shakyo (Copying of Sutra), which is actually not that rare for a Temple, but usually such places are filled with tourists and it kinda ruins a little bit the whole point which is a form of meditation for some people (me 🙋‍♀️). And honestly, I think this Temple is absolutely perfect for Shakyo, because I was the only person in the whole Temple during my visit and the place felt so calm.

*Shakyo costs 1,000 JPY per person on top of the admission fee

You do not need to be a believer in Buddhism or a religious person to try out Shakyo (and you do not have to know how to write or read kanji - Japanese/Chinese characters), which is the practice of copying Buddhist sutras by hand. Shakyo can be approached from various perspectives and motivations. While it is a traditional practice within Buddhism and is often carried out as a form of meditation or devotion, it can also be appreciated as an artistic or meditative activity without strict religious context.

Some people engage in Shakyo as a way to experience a sense of calm, focus, and mindfulness while copying the intricate characters of the sutras. Others might find it a way to connect with cultural heritage, learn calligraphy, or simply appreciate the aesthetic beauty of the sutra's characters.

This place is truly an overlooked hidden gem of the Hiei Mountain area.

How to Shakyo (Sutra copying):

1. You don't have to ask anyone in advance, just find a room with chairs and tables along the window opening overlooking the garden. Nearby you will find three types of papers of Shakyo (check the attached photo). Basically, the difference between them is the symbol quantity and how long it will take to complete one (small - 10 minutes, mid - 20 minutes, large - 50 minutes). I recommend getting the smallest one.

2. Please turn off your mobile phone before you begin with shakyo and refrain from talking.

3. Sit down at the table, calm your mind, close your eyes, relax your body, take a few deep breaths, and open your eyes.

4. Bow with your palms pressed against each other 🙏

5. Trace the sutra characters from top to bottom, starting from the upper right-hand corner (you will find a special pen lying on the table). Remember, it is not about the sutra characters being beautifully written, so do not concentrate on the neatness of your writing. It's a versatile activity that can be enjoyed for its meditative and cultural aspects.

6. If you make a mistake, continue without hesitation. The practice is about the process, not perfection.

7. Once you finish, write your name under 氏名

8. Once again, bow with your palms pressed against each other 🙏

9. Unfortunately, you cannot take it home with you. A completed Shakyo sheet should be left at the temple, so once you are done, please hand it over to one of the staff members at the entrance and pay that extra 1,000 JPY fee.