Solo Sanctuary: Discovering Shöten-in Temple, Hidaka

#hellohalloween
Far from the well-trodden tourist trails, nestled in the quiet history of the Koma district, lies a temple that feels like a secret the world forgot. My solo pilgrimage to Shöten-in Temple was a journey into profound peace, a chance to experience the essence of Zen in a humble, hidden setting that rewards the curious traveler.

My Perfect Solo Itinerary: A Morning of Quiet Contemplation

10:00 AM - The Path Through History
The adventure begins in the Koma district, an area steeped in the legacy of immigrants from the ancient Korean kingdom of Goguryeo. I first visited the nearby Koma Jinja to understand the context, then followed a quiet, wooded path to find Shöten-in. The sense of moving from one sacred space to another, deeper one, built a wonderful anticipation.

10:30 AM - A Veranda with a View to the Soul
Stepping into the temple grounds, the world fell silent. Shöten-in is a Ji-sect (Jishū) temple, an order known for its deep meditative practices. The main act here is simple: sit on the veranda and gaze into the garden.

As a solo visitor, I had this privilege entirely to myself. I slipped off my shoes, found a spot on the polished wooden floor, and let the view wash over me. The garden is a classic kare-sansui (dry landscape) masterpiece, with meticulously raked gravel representing water, carefully placed stones as islands or mountains, and a backdrop of lush, green moss and maple trees. The composition is a silent sermon on harmony and simplicity.

11:15 AM - The Luxury of Unhurried Time
With no one to rush me, I sat for nearly an hour. I watched the patterns of light and shadow shift across the stones. I listened to the wind in the trees and the distant call of a bird. This unhurried, silent observation was the entire point of the visit. It was a form of active meditation, a chance to quiet my mind in a space designed for exactly that purpose.

Solo Traveler Tips I Discovered:

· The Journey is Part of the Experience: Finding the temple is a small adventure. Use a good map and enjoy the walk through the historic and peaceful Koma district.
· Embrace the Silence: This is an active place of worship and meditation. Speak in hushed tones, move slowly, and be respectful of the profound tranquility.
· Check Opening Times: Small, secluded temples like this can have irregular hours. A quick check online before you go is wise.
· Just Sit: Don't treat this as a five-minute photo stop. The magic reveals itself to those who are willing to be still. Give yourself the gift of time here.

Shöten-in Temple is a sanctuary for the soul. For a solo traveler, it’s a rare and precious find—a place to experience the heart of Japanese Zen aesthetics in absolute solitude and peace.

#solotravel #japan #saitama #hiddengem #zentemple