Practice the art of sutra-copying at a hot-spring temple for a meditative experience

Visit Nikkozan Onsenji Temple to learn about Buddhist traditions and soothe your body in the temple's on-site hot springs. Try shakyo, the spiritual practice of copying sutras by hand, in the temple's serene natural environment. Start by tracing the 16 Chinese characters used to spell out an ancient Buddhist sutra. As you copy each of the 16 Chinese characters of the ancient Yakushi Sutra with a calligraphy brush, you may feel a sense of calm and inner peace wash over you.

Those unfamiliar with the language will still enjoy taking part, as the activity gives you a chance to relax and take in this idyllic and beautifully preserved area. After filling in your prayer, address and full name, complete your sutra-copying session by leaving your sutra as an offering in the temple's inner sanctuary. Afterward, head to the temple's hot spring, which draws water from the same source that supplies Nikko Yumoto Onsen Resort.