Kayabuki (Thatch Roof) Pilgrim Hut

Really fantastic place to sleep and spend the morning with a climb up to temple 20. It's about 100m above the valley and you have a great view. The thatched roof had been replaced with a normal one. The provided toilet is not really operational anymore. There is still no water directly available. The mentioned holy spring is way too far up the mountain and actually dry. The closest toilet and water is down in the village, just before you're turning left towards the hill, when you come from the road station. It's officially made to host pilgrims there for the night!

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The shelter is in a secluded spot, a short walk (<1km?) up the hill from Katsuura town, directly next to the trail to Kakurinji (#20). Signs indicate that pilgrims are permitted to sleep here. The two entrances to the shelter are open, but sleeping platforms are enclosed on three sides and the roof is in good condition - good protection in most weather conditions. There is a WC cabin on the same patch of land. No water. No cushions. Pilgrims who stay overnight will need to bring water and a sleeping mat as well as sleeping bag etc. The nearest store is an old mom-and-pop grocery in Katsuura but the selection of food items is probably better at the Lawson convenience store some kilometers before Katsuura.

1 photo submitted

Don’s sleep score: 5

The most beautiful hut on the pilgrimage route. No food (buy in the village before you start climbing up the hill.) There is supposed to be a spring with drinking water nearby (I didn't see it).