Zenkoji's 'shukubo' inn refurbished to welcome foreign guests

Private rooms are now available at historic temple in Japan's Nagano prefecture

Rengein, a traditional "shukubo" inn originally designed for monks and pilgrims on the grounds of Zenkoji Temple in Nagano Prefecture, can host up to around 20 guests per night. (All photos by Shioka Shimizu)

NAGANO, Japan -- A shukubo inn on the grounds of Zenkoji, one of Japan's most historically significant Buddhist temples, has been transformed into modern lodgings for both domestic and international visitors following a major refurbishment.