Staying at a temple is one choice for your accommodations in Japan. The lodging at temples is called shukubo. It originally began in the Heian period (794-1192) as a lodging for worshippers to temples. Shukubo is similar to traditional Japanese inns, and anyone can stay regardless of his or her religion. In temples, you can join in their Zen meditation. Also, in some shukubo, shojin ryori (vegetarian meal for monks) is served. Reservations can be made through Japanese travel agencies, such as the JTB. The price ranges from around 5000 yen to 15000 yen per night. Staying at a temple might not be as cheap as you expect, but the atmosphere is worth experiencing. Be aware that many temples don't accept credit cards for payment.
A good area to experience temple lodgings is Mt. Koya. There are over 100 temples in Mt. Koya, and about 50 temples offer lodgings. It might be nice to stay at a temple away from the noise of cities.
How to get to Mt. Koya:
Take Nankai Dentetsu Railway Nankai Koya Line from Osaka Namba station to Gokuraku-bashi station. (about one and half hour by limited express train) Transfer to the Nankai Koya-san cable car to Koya-san.
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