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Kyoto: Zen Experience in a Hidden Temple
Picture 4 for Activity Kyoto: Zen Experience in a Hidden Temple
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Kyoto: Zen Experience in a Hidden Temple

By Denei Japan tour
9.6 out of 10
Free cancellation available
Price is AU$713 per traveller* *Get lower prices by selecting more than 2 adults
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Features
  • Free cancellation available
  • 2h
  • Mobile voucher
  • Instant confirmation
Overview
  • Experience a tranquil temple atmosphere ideal for focused zazen meditation
  • Uncover the secrets of Zen philosophy guided by the chief priest at Jushoin
  • Immerse yourself in the spiritual practices of Zen in the company of monks
  • Engage in a tea experience to find the deep connection between Zen and tea
  • Drink matcha and eat sweets in a beautiful garden with 400 years of history

Activity location

    • Kyoto
    • Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan

Meeting/Redemption Point

    • 18 Taniguchisonomachi, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8015, Japan | The meeting point is the north gate of Myoushinji temple. You can see the large gate on the north side.
    • Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan

Multiple meeting/redemption points available, see location information for full list

Check availability

Early Morning Zen Experience
  • Activity duration is 2 hours2h2h
  • English

This is a private experience for one group, focused on practising Zazen meditation in a peaceful temple setting. Starting at 8:00 AM, the quiet morning offers the best time to calm your mind while admiring the serene Japanese garden, free from crowds.

Language options: English
Starting time: 8:00 am
Price details
AU$713.26 x 1 TravellerAU$713.26
Total
Price is AU$713.26
Until Sun, 29 Dec

What's included, what's not

  • What's includedWhat's includedGuide
  • What's includedWhat's included Temple entry ticket
  • What's includedWhat's included Chief priest's sermon
  • What's includedWhat's included Japanese tea and sweets
  • What's includedWhat's included Photoshoot by single-lens reflex camera
  • What's excludedWhat's excludedHotel pickup and drop-off
  • What's excludedWhat's excluded Tips

Know before you book

  • Not allowed: Alcohol and drugs, Weapons or sharp objects

What you can expect

• Experience Overview
This experience offers a unique opportunity to practice zazen meditation with Eitetsu Nishida, the 16th generation abbot of Jusho-in, a Zen temple. After zazen, Eitetsu will guide you on how to enjoy matcha (powdered green tea), served with traditional seasonal sweets. A photographer will also capture moments of your experience, and you’ll receive the photo data as a keepsake.

• About the Location
Jusho-in Temple, founded in 1599, is one of 46 sub-temples within Myoshin-ji, Japan's largest Zen temple, and has a history of about 420 years.

• About the Garden
The temple's beautiful garden, attributed to the renowned 16th-century painter Eitoku Kano, remains unchanged since its creation. The garden showcases different seasonal beauty: cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn leaves, and snow in winter.

• About the Host
Eitetsu Nishida etc,

Eitetsu Nishida is the 16th generation abbot, previously worked as a national public servant for 10 years before becoming a monk. Despite his rigorous three-and-a-half-year training, he is known for his cheerful personality and love for animals.

• About Zen and Rinzai Buddhism
Zen, a branch of Mahayana Buddhism, emphasises zazen (meditation) and direct experience over religious texts. Rinzai Zen, introduced to Japan in the 12th century, is known for its emphasis on sudden enlightenment (satori) through intense practices.

※ Flow of the Day

  1. Meet at the north gate of Myoshin-ji Temple and walk to Jusho-in with a guide.
  2. Two sets of 20-minute zazen sessions.
  3. Learn about matcha and its history from Eitetsu Nishida.
  4. Enjoy matcha and Japanese sweets while appreciating the garden.
  5. The tour concludes with a commemorative photo.

※ Duration
The experience lasts about 2 hours, including explanations of zazen and tea.

※ Target Audience
This tour is ideal for those seeking a serene experience near Kyoto, away from typical tourist spots. It’s open to all ages, but not wheelchair accessible. Chairs are available for those needing assistance during zazen.

※ What to Bring and Wear
No special requirements.

※ Cancellation Policy
Full refunds are available for cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour. No refunds for cancellations after this period.

Location

Activity location

  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIES
    • Kyoto
    • Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • PEOPLEPEOPLE
    • 18 Taniguchisonomachi, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8015, Japan | The meeting point is the north gate of Myoushinji temple. You can see the large gate on the north side.
    • Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan
  • PEOPLEPEOPLE
    • 18 Taniguchisonomachi, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8015, Japan | The meeting point is the north gate of Myoushinji temple. You can see the large gate on the north side.
    • Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan