Tobetsu Trappist Monastery, Trappist monastery in Hokuto, Japan.
Tobetsu Trappist Monastery is a monastery in Hokuto surrounded by farmland and forest in northern Hokkaido. Its red brick buildings follow traditional monastic design with cultivated gardens throughout the grounds.
The monastery was founded in 1896 and became one of only two Trappist monasteries in Japan. It marked a significant step in establishing contemplative religious communities in the region.
The monastery store sells handcrafted products like butter cookies and jams made by the monks themselves. These goods reflect the practical work that shapes daily life in the community.
The monastery is a 20-minute walk from Oshima Tobetsu Station or about 30 minutes by car from Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station. The location is easy to reach and accessible for day visitors.
The monks begin their day at 3:30 AM with prayer and meditation. While visitors cannot join these early morning services, they can purchase products in the shop that result from this quiet daily work.
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