Shunko-In Temple is at the heart of Kyoto’s largest temple complex, Myoshin-ji. Centrally located, it has simple rooms, tours in English, meditation classes and free bicycle hire.

It’s not for everyone but the guests who have chosen this for their stay in Kyoto seem to appreciate it. “When they leave, they have smiles on their faces,” he says.

Planning a trip to Kyoto, Japan? Our guide covers the must-see temples, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where to eat, and the ...

The Internet has helped the shukubo renaissance. Last year, a website was launched for the Terahaku (or temple stay) project, an effort to make this form of lodging more accessible by putting them ...

Or for those on a budget, try the brand new hotel, The Prime Pod Kyoto (from $45; +81-75-252-0341), which opened Feb. 15. Conveniently located right by the Samurai Kembu theater, overnight stays ...

Hyatt has been entrusted with management of the temples by the non-profit organisation Kyoto Culture Association. Hyatt says it plans to start offering overnight temple stays next year.

Shunko-In Temple is at the heart of Kyoto’s largest temple complex, Myoshin-ji. Centrally located, it has simple rooms, tours in English, meditation classes and free bicycle hire.

Today, the temple stay is appealing to a new demographic of travelers. Regardless of religious or cultural background, the experience can be transformative.