I stayed at Horakuan for nearly 3 weeks and it was one of the best experiences of my lifetime. Far away from crowded and big cities, Suzaka will offer you a great insight about Japanese daily life and culture.
I helped Dorothee-san with some gardening and maintenance during my stay. It was more joy rather than work, making Horakuan tidy and clean was the primary reward I got. In a beautiful natural setting Horakuan will make you think about nature and our relationship with it again in a different point of view.
From first second we met I felt so comfortable with my host, Dorothee-san, who was always helpful and understanding with everything. I had great time with her and her husband Taka-san, cleaning the gardens, going to round table sushi restaurant, onsen, renting a bicycle…
I also participated in meditation sessions and had some chat with Dorothee-san about zen teachings.This part is the one I can’t describe in words. To be aware of oneself and others, this is one of the things I’ve experienced in Horakuan deeply.
With lots of alternative tourist hot spots, Nagano prefecture is a great choice to travel and for sightseeing if you have enough time in Japan. And if you’re interested in Japanese culture and especially in Zen Buddhism, Dorothee-san, multilingual priest, will definitely answer your questions.
So please come and experience for yourself, you’ll never regret it!