Authentic Zen Experience at temple in Tokyo

Duration1h 30m

TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted

LanguagesJapanese, English

Group sizeUp to 20 travelers

Overview

Find Peace of Mind with a 90-Minute Relaxing Zen Experience

Join us at a serene temple surrounded by nature to practice Zazen meditation and try simple sutra recitation.

It is a perfect opportunity to step away from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, experience its tranquil side, and fully appreciate the beauty of Japanese culture.

This is not a commercialized tour for tourists, but an authentic experience where local Japanese people also participate.

Close your eyes and focus on your breath. We will guide you through proper posture, breathing techniques, and effective ways to relax your body, so you can easily practice Zazen at home even after your trip.

While Zazen is traditionally practiced in the Seiza (sitting on heels) position, chairs or stools are available upon request if you are not comfortable sitting on the floor.

What's included

Tax
Instructor

bus, taxi

What to expect

All the temples where this experience is offered are not commercialized tourist attractions, but traditional temples that serve as the spiritual and community centers for the local people. Detailed location information will be provided after your reservation is completed.

Site A: One of the oldest Buddhist temples in Tokyo with over 1,300 years of history.
Surrounded by beautiful greenery, this temple is located about 40 minutes from Shinjuku Station by train and bus. The head priest is the 91st generation head of the Tendai sect and is also a certified Omotesenke Tea Ceremony Instructor.

Site B: A beautiful small temple located in "Yanesen," a very popular historic area.
The head priest is the younger brother of the 91st generation head priest mentioned above. In his youth, he was a professional boxing champion before entering the priesthood.

Site C: A beautiful small temple located in "Hiroo," a popular residential area among expats.

Site D: Located in the popular Asakusa area.
Upon receiving your request, we will coordinate with each temple and assign a venue that is available for your requested date and time. (Please note that guests cannot select a specific temple.)

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Our meeting spot IS NOT "Tokyo station"

Site A: Chofu area.

Site B: "Yanesen area"

Site C: "Hiroo area"

Site D: Asakusa area.

This experience takes place at traditional local temples.
After your request, after confirm with temples, will info you the details
(selection is not available.)

End point

Our meeting spot IS NOT "Tokyo station"

Site A: Chofu area.

Site B: "Yanesen area"

Site C: "Hiroo area"

Site D: Asakusa area.

This experience takes place at traditional local temples.
After your request, after confirm with temples, will info you the details
(selection is not available.)

Additional information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.
A stool will be provided for those who have difficulty sitting in the seiza(sitting on the heels) position.
Please note that the staff can only speak limited English. Due to the nature of the activity, having someone who can understand Japanese in your group is recommended. If no one in your group can understand Japanese, please let us know in advance as we might be able to arrange for a volunteer translator to accompany you.

Cancellation policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Reviews

4.5 (6)