What is Shojin Ryori? How do you pray during your meal?

Welcome to Yakuoin Temple on Mount Takao. In this guide, we invite you to explore "Shojin Ryori," a vegetarian cuisine that embodies more than just nourishment. As you ascend the mountain, take in the fresh air and prepare for the unique experience awaiting you. Here, your meal is far more than just food; it embodies a prayer, a form of training, and a dialogue with all elements of life that inhabit this sacred mountain.

Throughout this guide, we’ll delve into the rich history, profound meaning, and mindful approach of Shojin Ryori. We encourage you to relax and listen closely; you may rediscover the essence of ‘itadakimasu,’ which means ‘to receive food,’ and the reverence it inspires.