The Shumei International Institute is a non-denominational spiritual fellowship and is part of a worldwide organization founded in Japan called Shinji Shumeikai, commonly referred to simply as “Shumei”.  Shumei’s philosophy revolves around three principal tenets: A spiritual healing practice known as “Jyorei”, fostering an appreciation for art and beauty and the practice of “Natural Agriculture”. 

Shumei’s Crestone Center is recognized as a sacred pilgrimage site by its many friends worldwide.  Built on the slope of the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains, with a breathtaking view overlooking the largest high alpine valley in the world, the Crestone Center fittingly represents the “Earth element”.

The Crestone Center’s campus of buildings including it’s oval shaped strawbale sanctuary were built on the reclaimed former site of the Independence goldmine.  The architecturally designed and landscaped facilities are intended as an example of art and beauty and were built with an eye toward balancing aesthetics and sustainable construction.  The campus includes a fountain and waterfall that runs from early Spring through Autumn as well as an outdoor amphitheater.  

Shumei hosts a wide variety of public programs including concerts, taiko drumming, movie nights, Natural Agriculture tours and programs and a year round art symposia series featuring local, regional and occasionally international artists.  The small round art gallery is always free and open to the public, as are almost all other public programs.

Daily prayer services are held every day including holidays at 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM and all are always open to the public.  These ceremonies known in Japanese as “Sampai” (translates as “going to a higher place”, “gathering prayers” or simply as “service”) include chanting an ancient Shinto prayer and sharing Jyorei with people who wish to receive it. 

The specific mission of the Shumei International Institute within the worldwide Shumei family is to help people realize “…we are all world citizens able to act together for the common good.”  This mission is carried out by sharing in the three principal tenets of the Shumei philosophy as well as hosting other seminars and events and sharing in the larger unique interfaith community of the Crestone area.

General visiting hours are 9 – 5 seven days a week.  We ask that groups of 6 or more people call in advance for tours.  Individuals and smaller groups are welcome on a drop in basis.  If visitors wish to attend a Sampai prayer service it is recommended to arrive at least 20 minutes in advance to receive a brief explanation.  Sampai begins precisely at 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM every day.  Please visit our website for an up to date schedule of other public events throughout the year. 

The Shumei International Institute does not offer overnight accommodations but there are a wide variety of accommodations available close by from B & B’s to condominium rentals and the Sangre de Cristo Inn.

All of Shumei’s Crestone buildings are ADA accessible.  If you have concerns about visiting or have other special, please call in advance and we will do our best to accommodate.

Pets are welcome on the grounds but not inside the buildings (with the exception of handicap companions).  We ask that owners maintain control of their pets at all times and clean up after them.