The first Bernardine house was in Hamamatsu city in 1954. The sisters founded a High School and two kindergartens. These formed part of the School Association of Hamamatsu Umi-no-Hoshi. The Order decided to develop the hospitality side of the Bernardines and moved away from the schools in 1998.

MIKKABI
The Sisters moved to Mikkabi town to continue their Cistercian way of life. The monastery is situated close to Lake Hamana in beautiful surroundings. The monastery is part of the Japanese Diocese of Yokohama.

Celebration of 50 years of the Bernardines in Japan

There are 11 sisters in community, all of whom except one are Japanese.

MIKKABI is the novitiate house for Japan. Those wishing to join the community would start their monastic life in this house. During the time of formation the Japanese sisters would spend some time in Europe and close links are maintained with other communities by visits, letters, and of course in today's technological world, e-mails.

We welcome all those who wish to spend time in prayer and silence. There are several guest rooms available for those wishing to stay to make a private retreat. Day groups are also welcome.

In the guest house area there are traditional Japanese guest rooms.