3 hour private experience
Location: Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City
Offered in Japanese, with a friendly Deeper Japan guide interpreting in your language
Meet the Master
What you’ll do
Led by the head monk, tour the temple and learn about the garden and the art on display within the grounds of the temple. Then, go upstairs to the second floor that's closed to the public, to immerse yourself in zazen meditation. Next, enjoy a meal of traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, shojin ryori. Finally, participate in a wabi-cha tea ceremony led by the head monk.
Who can attend
Children must be 12+
What to wear
Comfortable clothing suitable for meditation
What else you should know
Please inform us of any dietary requirements, including allergies, at checkout.
Availability
Everyday
Session 1 (09:00 - 12:00)
Session 2 (13:00 - 16:00)
Access
10 minutes by car from Kyoto Station
Conserving of the Arts
In the past, a temple was more than a sacred place of worship and a community gathering place. It was also a place where artists of all artistic disciplines gathered as well as passed through. On the outskirts of Kyoto, there is a temple where the head monk actively pursues protecting this role of the temple in modern times, hosting artists to stay and create on the temple premises. Art is incorporated into various aspects of the architecture of this temple, from the windows and the fusuma sliding doors, to the immaculately curated garden that shifts colors and patterns throughout the seasons. In addition, while the temple is open to the public from sunrise to sundown, the second floor is closed to the public and offers an exclusive view of dynamic fusuma artwork done by one of the artists in residence, as well as a grand view of the garden. Surrounded by art and nature, experience zazen meditation led by the head monk. Then, partake in a course of shojin ryori, traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, made and served by a 5th-generation shojin ryori chef. Wrap up this exclusive experience with a wabi-sabi tea ceremony led by the head monk himself.
Cancellation Policy
Please make your booking at least 14 days in advance. See cancellation policy here.
A detailed itinerary will be emailed to you once your booking has been confirmed.
