Kōya-san temple

Kōya-san temple Temple lodgings, known as shukubo, are popular accommodations among overseas visitors in Koyasan.

In the past, they were only for monks who engaged in ascetic practices in Koyasan.

Then, temples started to allow pilgrims to stay at temples. Now Japanese tourists can stay at temple lodgings, as well foreign visitors.

Currently, they provide visitors with equipments such as towels, toothbrush and yukata.

As shukubo’s facilities are similar to Japanese Ryokan’s ones, you can learn about Japanese Ryokan manners, for example, how to check-in, where to take off your shoes, how to use communal baths and dining experiences in website of Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) in advance.

Please read the section of Japanese Inn Information below (http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/indepth/history/experience/index.html#inn)

In 52 Koyasan shukubos, monks will work for you. Some monks are able to speak English, but some are not.

They will prepare for serving vegetarian cuisine, known as shojin-ryori, and drinks, and making Japanese futon thin mattresses that are spread on the tatami mats for your sleep.

Although you can enjoy those Koyasan-style services, you will need to follow temple rules.

Some temples still follow their own traditional style strictly; for example, some temples do not provide a TV in a room.

Source

http://www.koya.org/english/staying.html