Delve into the art of zazen meditation at Kyoto's first Soto Zen temple
1.5 hour private experience
Location: Fushimi Ward, Kyoto City
Offered in Japanese, with a friendly Deeper Japan guide interpreting in your language
A minimum of 2 guests is required to book. Solo participants are welcome but will be charged the 2-person rate
Meet the Master
What you’ll do
Learn about the Soto Zen school and Zen meditation from the head monk. Then, experience a session of zen meditation, 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
Everday
Session 1 (10:00 - 11:30)
Session 2 (13:30 - 15:00)
Session 3 (15:00 - 16:30)
Access
25 minutes by car from Kyoto Station
To Sit or Not Sit
Founded in the Kamakura era by the Zen master Dogen, Soto Zen is one of the three schools of Zen Buddhism. Now considered the largest school, or sect, this school was practiced by the lower classes when it was first founded. In the teachings of Soto Zen, the very act of zazen meditation cultivates the peace of both the body and the mind, which in turn, opens the path to achieve enlightenment. In addition, the phrase gyoujuuzaga represents all daily aspects of life. Gyou means to walk, juu means to stay or stand still, za means to sit, and ga means to lie down. Guided by the spirit of zazen, Soto Zen views every part of this daily cycle—walking, standing, sitting, lying down—as practice of Zen Buddhism. At this Soto Zen temple, immerse yourself in zazen meditation, led by the head monk, and find your inner peace and calm just outside of central Kyoto.
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.
