Seek spiritual enlightenment through immersion at a Soto Zen temple outside Sapporo
3 hour private experience
Location: Kitahiroshima City, Hokkaido
Offered in Japanese, with a friendly Deeper Japan guide interpreting in your language
Meet the Master
What you’ll do
Immerse yourself in temple life at a Soto Zen Buddhist temple. Learn about the history of the temple and Zen principles. Experience zazen meditation, led by the head monk. Take a vegan Buddhist cooking class with the former chef of Eiheji, Soto's head temple. Seek enlightenment through action and practice at this greater Sapporo temple.
What to wear
Clothing that you feel comfortable in
What else you should know
Please inform us of any dietary requirements, including allergies, at checkout.
Who can attend
Children must be 15+
Availability
Monday to Friday
Session 1 (10:00 - 12:00)
Session 2 (11:00 - 13:00)
Session 3 (12:00 - 14:00)
Not available in March and August
Access
45 minutes by car from Sapporo Station
40 minutes by car from New Chitose Airport
Center Yourself
Step away from the noise of daily life and enter a world where simplicity becomes a path to clarity. At a peaceful Soto Zen temple on the outskirts of Sapporo, guests are invited to experience the quiet rhythms of monastic life, focusing on two essential practices: Zazen meditation and shojin ryori cooking. Rooted in a tradition brought to Japan in the 12th century by monks like Dogen, Zen Buddhism offers a direct path to awareness—one grounded not in scripture, but in silence, breath, and intentional living. Guided by the temple’s head monk, begin your journey with a seated meditation session, then learn to prepare the elegant, seasonal cuisine of monks, crafted with mindfulness and gratitude. Through stillness and flavor, this rare encounter offers insight into the deep philosophy of Zen—felt not just in thought, but in every quiet, deliberate act.
Cancellation Policy
Please make your booking at least one month in advance. See cancellation policy here.
A detailed itinerary will be emailed to you once your booking has been confirmed.
