This review is for my stay in the monastery silent room.
One who can appreciate a cultural experience, of being transported back in time, whom can adhere to a few simple rules, be comfortable with venerable quarters over modern sterilized accommodations will enjoy their stay as much as I did. Being at Akiko's was a true pleasure, a gift to self...for quiet time, meditation, reflection and introspection was much needed and appreciated. Be-ing amidst the the routine, the daily order, quiet peace, steady calm, perpetual hum of instrumental music, was only further enriched by observing and celebrating the zen-master felines, all steeped in historical atmosphere dusted with esoteric undertones. For years now I have been infatuated with a book named "A Different Kind of Luxury," and just now realized that I feel that perhaps I received a glimpse of old world Japan, and am appeased for now.
Mahalo nui loa to Akiko, the Hakalau community, wonderful guest, long term residents and most honored-ancestors.