Hokyoji Retreat Center
Slow down, settle in, practice mindfully
Mindfulness at Hokyoji is framed as a way to meet ordinary life more clearly, with community and the natural surroundings supporting the work. The rural campus sits in a clearing reached by a gravel lane, a setting that asks visitors to slow down before practice even begins. Its emphasis is mindfulness practice and teaching rather than a clearly identified lineage, so newcomers should check what a specific retreat will involve. Meals are vegetarian, and cooks try to accommodate dietary restrictions when contacted ahead; vegan, dairy-free, and nut-free options are listed. Rooms have air conditioning, with free Wi-Fi, parking, a kitchen, and coffee and tea also noted among the amenities. Hokyoji runs by donation, so ask about a particular retreat’s arrangements before traveling. Rural navigation deserves attention: the mailing address points toward Eitzen, but the actual approach is from New Albin, Iowa.
Highlights
- Vegetarian meals with cooks who try to meet dietary needs when asked in advance
- Vegan, dairy-free, and nut-free dietary options
- A campus reached by a mile-long gravel lane from the New Albin area
- Air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, parking, and a communal kitchen
Good for
Setting
The campus is set in a rural natural setting, at the end of a gravel road leading from New Albin to a clearing. The approach feels removed from town life, and cell reception may be limited, so it is wise to plan the route before setting out.
The practice
The center focuses on mindfulness meditation and related teachings, inviting practitioners to bring attention to experience as it unfolds in everyday life. No particular lineage is identified, and retreat formats may vary. If you are new to meditation, ask the organizers what a specific gathering involves and whether it suits your experience level.
A typical day
Daily structure varies by retreat, so confirm the schedule with the center. Ask whether your gathering includes guided meditation, periods of silent practice, teaching, or shared meals, and what time participants are expected to arrive.
Accommodation
Rooms have air conditioning, but room types and lodging arrangements are not described here. Ask the center about accommodation details for your retreat.
What to bring
Bring comfortable clothing for meditation, layers for changing conditions, and shoes suited to gravel roads and outdoor paths. Summers are the warmest months and among the wettest, while winter is cooler and drier, so pack rain protection in summer and warm layers in winter.
How to get there
Do not navigate to Eitzen, which is the mailing-address location. Approach from New Albin, Iowa: turn onto Ross Avenue from Highway 26 near the Community Center, continue northwest past the cemetery, then follow the gravel road and Hokyoji signs to the campus. Check the route beforehand because cell reception may be weak.
Nearest airport: La Crosse Regional Airport (LSE) (44 km)
La Crosse Regional Airport (LSE) is approximately 44 km from the center. Arrange onward ground transport and confirm options with the center before traveling.
Nearest city: La Crosse
Contact the center directly to confirm retreat dates and reservation arrangements.
The center runs by donation, with no fixed fee stated. Ask about payment expectations for the specific retreat you plan to attend.
Climate
Climate Zone: Temperate
Best Months: Jan, Feb, Dec
Avoid: Jul, Aug, Apr
The annual average temperature is about 8.5°C, with the warmest weather in June through August and the coolest in December through February. July and August are among the wettest months, so summer visitors should be ready for rain; winter is generally cooler and drier.
Location
Frequently asked questions
Which town should I navigate to for Hokyoji?
Use New Albin, Iowa, as your approach point rather than Eitzen, Minnesota. From Highway 26 in New Albin, turn onto Ross Avenue by the Community Center, then follow the gravel road and Hokyoji signs. Cell service may be limited, so review the route in advance.
Can I attend if I am new to meditation?
The center emphasizes mindfulness practice, but retreat requirements and formats can differ. Ask the organizers whether a particular retreat is suitable for beginners.
Can the kitchen accommodate dietary restrictions?
Meals are vegetarian, and cooks try to accommodate dietary restrictions when contacted ahead. Vegan, dairy-free, and nut-free options are listed; check with the center about your needs before arrival.
What does a typical retreat day include?
The daily schedule depends on the retreat. Contact the center for details about practice sessions, meals, and arrival times for the dates you are considering.
How do I reserve a place?
Contact the center directly to ask about upcoming retreat dates and how to reserve.
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