Kyoto Zen Retreat Through Tea Ceremony after Zazen meditation

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Step away from Kyoto’s busy streets and enter Joju-ji Temple, a quiet hidden temple with an authentic atmosphere. In this experience, you will practice zazen meditation inside the main hall, guided by the abbot and supported by the guide. Before meditation, the abbot will explain the basic posture, breathing, and mindset of zazen. This experience is beginner-friendly, so no knowledge of Buddhism or meditation is needed. It is not strict religious training, but a gentle chance to slow down and experience a real Buddhist temple. After meditation, you will move to the hojo, a traditional temple room, for a relaxed Q&A about Zen, Buddhism, temple life, or Japanese culture. The experience ends with a traditional sencha-do tea ceremony, featuring selected Japanese tea and seasonal sweets. Sencha-do is a refined tea culture centered on loose-leaf green tea. Through tea, sweets, and the quiet atmosphere, you can feel Kyoto’s seasonal beauty.

What’s included

• Admission fees

Not included

• Gratuities

Meeting and pickup

The meeting point for this experience is at the bottom of the entrance stairs to Joju-ji Temple. The guide will come to meet you there, so please wait at the bottom and do not climb the long stairs.

Before you go

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.

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