Savoring Shojin-ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine), participating in early morning observances, and spending quiet time with sutra copying or Zen meditation. A Shukubo experience on Koyasan will offer more than just accommodation; it will provide soul-stirring emotions and healing. International visitors who are unsure about Japanese can also feel at ease by choosing a Shukubo that offers English support. So, why not experience a sacred night on Koyasan yourself?

What is World Heritage “Koyasan”? The Sacred Site of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism and Its Charm

Koyasan, located in the mountains of northern Wakayama Prefecture, is the head temple of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism, opened in 816 by Kobo Daishi Kukai. The group of temples spreading across a basin at an altitude of approximately 800m is registered as a “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range” UNESCO World Heritage site, and attracts many pilgrims and tourists from Japan and abroad as one of Japan’s representative sacred places.

What is a “Shukubo”? A Worry-Free Accommodation Experience for First-Timers

Shukubo were originally lodging facilities for worshippers visiting temples. Unlike hotels or ryokans, their characteristic is that you can stay while experiencing temple life. Koyasan still has over 50 Shukubo, and many of them accept general travelers. To ensure a worry-free stay for first-timers, English support for foreign tourists has also been progressing in recent years.

Common Ways to Spend Time at a Shukubo

• Shojin-ryori: Savor traditional Buddhist cuisine made abundantly with seasonal vegetables and wild plants, without using meat or fish. It’s an experience that cleanses the mind and body, beautiful to look at too.
• Morning Service (Gongyo): You can participate in the early morning sutra chanting by monks held in the main hall. It’s an extraordinary experience in a solemn atmosphere.
• Sutra Copying (Shakyo) / Zen Meditation (Zazen) Experience: This is a time to calm your mind and reflect on yourself. You can experience copying sutras with a brush or quietly sitting in meditation (content varies by Shukubo).
• Garden Stroll: Each Shukubo has its own beautiful garden, where you can leisurely stroll and soothe your mind.

The Charm of “Ichijyoin,” a Popular Shukubo on Koyasan

There are many Shukubo on Koyasan, but among them, “Ichijyoin” is particularly recommended for international visitors. The reasons are its beautiful garden, substantial Shojin-ryori, and English-speaking staff. It houses a building designated as an Important Cultural Property associated with Kobo Daishi, allowing you to stay while feeling history and prestige.

For reservations at Ichijyoin: https://www.itijyoin.or.jp/en_inquiry/

Related Tour: Incense Powder Crafting and a Lunch of Traditional Fare at a Historic Koyasan Temple – A Time Spent Immersed in Buddhist Teachings

Preparation and Precautions for Your Shukubo Experience

Access to Koyasan

Experience the “Heart” of Japan with a Koyasan Shukubo Stay

A Shukubo experience on Koyasan is more than just encountering traditional Japanese culture. It’s a precious opportunity to forget the urban hustle, reflect on yourself, and refresh your mind and body. Especially, by choosing a Shukubo with English support, international visitors can safely experience a sacred night in Japan.

The taste of Shojin-ryori, the solemnity of the morning service, and meditation in a tranquil space. A Shukubo experience at “Ichijyoin” on Koyasan will surely be one of the most deeply memorable moments of your trip to Japan. We highly recommend trying this unforgettable experience in this sacred land on your next visit to Japan.

https://jatrabridge.com/2025/06/05/12774/from-urban-buzz-to-japans-essence-a-journey-through-tranquil-hidden-gems-in-rural-japan/

Strolling through the temple grounds while listening to explanations from a specialized monk, calming your mind with sutra copying, and receiving a special Goshuin stamp. This is a special cultural experience that is sure to be a highlight of your Kyoto trip. We wholeheartedly recommend it to those who wish to deeply understand Japanese culture and spend quiet time.

Book Your Toji Private Tour

What is World Heritage “Toji Temple”? The Temple of Kyoto’s Symbol, the Five-Story Pagoda

Toji Temple’s construction began in 794 with the relocation of the capital to Heian-kyo, and it was bestowed upon Kobo Daishi Kukai as the head temple of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism. The five-story pagoda, boasting a height of approximately 55m, is widely known as a landmark of Kyoto both domestically and internationally, and is registered as part of the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto” World Heritage site. Within the temple grounds, numerous National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties, such as the Lecture Hall and Main Hall, are scattered, allowing visitors to feel the weight of history firsthand.

Monk-Guided! Special Contents of the Toji Private Tour

In this special experience, a monk from Toji Temple will serve as your direct guide, providing in-depth explanations about Toji Temple’s history and the teachings of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism, including areas normally closed to the public. An English interpreter will also be provided, allowing you to immerse yourself in the essence of Japanese Buddhist culture without language worries.

• Special Access to Restricted Areas: You can tour valuable places normally inaccessible, with explanations from a monk.
• Detailed Explanations by a Monk: You can hear in-depth stories unique to experts, such as the secrets of the five-story pagoda, the meaning of Buddhist statues, and the teachings of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism.
• Enjoying the Temple’s Serenity to Yourself: As it’s a small-group private tour, you can escape the hustle and bustle and fully appreciate the temple grounds in tranquility.

Calming Sutra Copying Experience and a Special Goshuin Stamp

After the private tour, a calming “Sutra Copying Experience” awaits. By holding a brush in a quiet space and carefully transcribing sutras, you can enter a deep meditative state, forget your daily busyness, and compose your mind and body. Sutra copying is a valuable opportunity to connect with Buddhist teachings and feel a sense of accomplishment. Even beginners can participate with peace of mind as a monk will provide careful guidance.

After the sutra copying experience, a “Goshuin” stamp exclusive to participants of this special tour will be bestowed. You can take it home as a cherished memory of your trip and a testament to your visit to Toji Temple. It will surely be an unforgettable stamp for those who enjoy collecting Goshuin.

Book Your Sutra Copying Experience at Toji Temple

Reasons to Recommend This Experience for International Visitors

• Authentic Experience: Learn teachings directly from a monk and experience culture at a World Heritage temple.
• Special Access: A unique opportunity to enter normally restricted areas with an English interpreter.
• Mind and Body Refreshment: Calm your mind and spend meditative time through sutra copying.
• Special Goshuin: The Goshuin exclusive to tour participants will be a valuable souvenir of your trip.
• Easy Access from Central Kyoto: Close to Kyoto Station, making it easy to plan with other sightseeing spots.

Toji Temple Private Tour & Sutra Copying Experience Overview

What to Know Before Your Trip

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Experience Kyoto’s History, Culture, and Inner Peace at Toji Temple

The private tour and sutra copying experience at World Heritage Toji Temple is a valuable opportunity to delve into the depths of Japan’s Buddhist culture and engage in self-reflection, something not fully appreciated through typical sightseeing. Interaction with a monk, special access to restricted areas, and the tranquility of sutra copying will surely make your Kyoto trip unforgettable.

Be moved by the grandeur of the five-story pagoda, compose your mind with sutra copying, and receive a special Goshuin stamp. We encourage you to take this opportunity to have your own special experience at Toji Temple. It will surely become one of the best memories of your trip.

https://jatrabridge.com/2019/09/26/2667/7-temples-you-can-experience-zen-sitting-meditation-in-kyoto/

This time, we introduce a private Zazen meditation experience you can have at “Kinryu-ji Temple,” a tranquil Zen temple slightly removed from the commotion of Asakusa. This is the perfect opportunity for those who want to reset their mind during their trip, delve deep into Japanese spirituality, and challenge themselves with authentic Zazen. We promise you a moment of peace and tranquility.

Book Your Private Zazen Experience at Kinryu-ji Now

What is Zazen? The Power of Meditation to Calm Your Mind in Tokyo’s Bustle

Zazen is a form of meditation in Zen Buddhism where one sits quietly with correct posture, regulates breathing, and aims to unify the mind to achieve a state of selflessness. In our busy modern society, it has gained worldwide attention as a tool for mindfulness and stress reduction. Through Zazen, you can face your inner self and regain peace of mind.

The Charm of Private Zazen Experience at Asakusa’s Kinryu-ji Temple

This Zazen experience takes place at “Kinryu-ji Temple,” a Zen temple located slightly away from Asakusa’s famous tourist spots. What makes this experience special is its “private nature” and “hospitality.”

• Small-group private space: Experience Zazen in a quiet and solemn space not usually open to the public, either in a small group or privately.
• Detailed instruction: Experienced monks or experts provide careful guidance on Zazen posture and breathing techniques, ensuring even beginners can participate with confidence.
• Traditional hospitality: After Zazen, the experience includes time to enjoy tea (matcha) and beautiful Japanese sweets unique to Japan. You can savor Japanese culture with all five senses.
• English support available: English support is available for international visitors to participate with ease.

How to Book Your Zazen Experience and Important Notes [Complete Manual]

The Zazen experience at Kinryu-ji Temple is very popular, so advance booking is essential. Especially during tourist seasons, it tends to fill up quickly, so we recommend booking online as early as possible once your desired dates are decided.

How to Book

Manners and Precautions During Participation [Important]

A Zen temple is a sacred place and a training ground. To concentrate wholeheartedly on Zazen, please observe the following manners and precautions. If you join a tour, your guide will explain everything in detail beforehand, so you can rest assured.

Access to Kinryu-ji Temple (Asakusa Area, Tokyo)

Kinryu-ji Temple is within walking distance of Asakusa’s main tourist attractions and is conveniently accessible.

• From Tokyo Station:
  • Approx. 4 minutes by JR Yamanote Line to “Ueno Station,” then transfer to Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and ride for approx. 5 minutes to “Asakusa Station.”
• From Shinjuku Station:
  • Approx. 5 minutes by JR Chuo Line Rapid to “Kanda Station,” then transfer to Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and ride for approx. 10 minutes to “Asakusa Station.”
• From Asakusa Station:
  • Approx. 5-10 minutes walk from various lines at “Asakusa Station.”

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This time, for those who wish to connect with the spirit of “Zen” and calm their minds in Tokyo, we have carefully selected 6 Zazen meditation spots that are beginner-friendly and welcome international visitors. Why not take a little time out from your busy travel schedule to experience meditation and regain inner peace? Reading this article will surely help you find the perfect Zazen experience for you.

Find & Book Your Zazen Experience in Tokyo

What is Zazen? The Power of Meditation to Calm Your Mind in Tokyo’s Bustle

Zazen is a form of meditation in Zen Buddhism where one sits quietly with correct posture, regulates breathing, and aims to unify the mind to achieve a state of selflessness. In our busy modern society, it has gained worldwide attention as a tool for mindfulness and stress reduction. Through Zazen, you can face your inner self and regain peace of mind.

Recommended for Beginners & International Visitors! 6 Zazen Meditation Spots in Tokyo

1. Korin-in (Hiroo) – Learn Introductory Zazen in English in an International City

Located in Hiroo, an international area where many foreign embassies are gathered, Korin-in is very accustomed to assisting international visitors. Zazen instructions are often given in English, making it the biggest appeal for first-timers to participate with confidence. You can spend a quiet time in a sophisticated urban atmosphere.

• Area: Shibuya Ward, Hiroo
• Access: Walk from Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line “Hiroo Station”

2. Kinryu-ji (Asakusa) – A Quiet Zen Temple in the Old Downtown Area, Perfect for a Stop During Sightseeing

Despite being in Asakusa, a world-famous tourist destination, stepping inside reveals a surprisingly quiet space. Its appeal lies in being able to combine your visit with a stroll through Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise-dori. The contrast between “active” sightseeing and a “tranquil” experience will make your travel memories even deeper.

• Area: Taito Ward, Asakusa
• Access: Walk from various lines at “Asakusa Station”

3. Seisho-ji (Atago) – A Historic Temple Nestled in the City Center, at the Foot of Tokyo Tower

Located near Tokyo Tower and Shiba Park, Seisho-ji is a large temple situated right in the heart of Tokyo’s Atago area. Experiencing Zazen amidst high-rise buildings offers a unique contrast between urban bustle and traditional culture. Its excellent accessibility makes it easy to incorporate into your travel schedule.

• Area: Minato Ward, Atago
• Access: Walk from Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line “Kamiyacho Station”

4. Zensho-an (Yanaka) – Authentic Zazen in a Town Retaining Old Japanese Charm

Located in Yanaka, known as the “Yanesen” area, which preserves old townscapes. You can experience authentic and solemn Zazen at this historic temple where many cultural figures rest. After the experience, strolling through Yanaka Ginza is also recommended. It’s perfect for those who want to experience local Japanese daily life.

• Area: Taito Ward, Yanaka
• Access: Walk from Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line “Sendagi Station”

5. Enyu-ji (Meguro) – Facing Yourself While Gazing at a Beautiful Garden

En’yu-ji is a venerable temple whose Shakado (Buddha Hall) is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. It is famous for its well-maintained beautiful garden, where you can experience Zazen while feeling the changing seasons. It offers a truly luxurious time where you can simultaneously appreciate visual beauty and spiritual tranquility.

• Area: Meguro Ward, Himonya
• Access: Walk from Tokyu Toyoko Line “Gakugei-daigaku Station” or “Toritsu-daigaku Station”

6. Sotoshu Shumusho (Atago) – A More Authentic Zazen Experience at the Head Temple of Zen

Here’s a very valuable opportunity to experience Zazen at the spiritual center of Soto Zen, one of Japan’s two major Zen sects. Sotoshu Shumusho (Soto Zen Headquarters) is located in the city center near Tokyo Tower and offers authentic Zazen programs for tourists.

In addition to Zazen, some programs here allow you to experience Hōwa (Dharma talks by monks), Sarei (tea etiquette), and Shojin Ryori (traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine), enabling a deeper understanding of Zen teachings and the daily life of monks. Since it’s conducted in small groups, allowing for more specialized guidance, it is highly recommended for those who wish to genuinely experience Japan’s spiritual culture.

How to Book Your Zazen Experience and Important Notes [Complete Manual]

The Zazen experiences introduced are very popular, so advance booking is essential. Especially during tourist seasons, they tend to fill up quickly, so we recommend booking online as early as possible once your desired dates are decided. You can find details about Tokyo’s Zazen experiences on this online booking site.

Manners and Precautions During Participation [Important]

A Zen temple is a sacred place and a training ground. To concentrate wholeheartedly on Zazen, please observe the following manners and precautions. If you join a tour, your guide will explain everything in detail beforehand, so you can rest assured.

Access to Each Spot (From Major Tokyo Stations)

The Zazen experience spots introduced are scattered across various areas of Tokyo. Here are estimated access times from major stations to each temple.

• From Tokyo Station:
  • Korin-in (Hiroo): Approx. 5 minutes by JR Yamanote Line to “Ebisu Station,” then transfer to Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line and ride for approx. 2 minutes to “Hiroo Station.”
  • Kinryu-ji (Asakusa): Approx. 4 minutes by JR Yamanote Line to “Ueno Station,” then transfer to Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and ride for approx. 5 minutes to “Asakusa Station.”
  • Seisho-ji (Atago): Approx. 10 minutes by Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line directly to “Kamiyacho Station” (no transfer).
  • Zensho-an (Yanaka): Approx. 10 minutes by JR Yamanote Line to “Nippori Station,” then approx. 5 minutes walk.
  • Enyu-ji (Meguro): Approx. 10 minutes by JR Yamanote Line to “Shibuya Station,” then transfer to Tokyu Toyoko Line and ride for approx. 5-10 minutes to “Gakugei-daigaku Station” or “Toritsu-daigaku Station.”
  • Sotoshu Shumusho (Atago): Approx. 5 minutes walk from Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line “Kamiyacho Station.”
• From Shinjuku Station:
  • Korin-in (Hiroo): Approx. 5 minutes by JR Yamanote Line to “Ebisu Station,” then transfer to Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line and ride for approx. 2 minutes to “Hiroo Station.”
  • Kinryu-ji (Asakusa): Approx. 5 minutes by JR Chuo Line Rapid to “Kanda Station,” then transfer to Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and ride for approx. 10 minutes to “Asakusa Station.”
  • Seisho-ji (Atago): Approx. 10 minutes by Toei Oedo Line to “Daimon Station,” then transfer to Toei Mita Line and ride for approx. 2 minutes to “Onarimon Station.”
  • Zensho-an (Yanaka): Approx. 8 minutes by JR Chuo Line Rapid to “Ochanomizu Station,” then transfer to JR Sobu Line Local and ride for approx. 5 minutes to “Sendagi Station.”
  • Enyu-ji (Meguro): Approx. 5 minutes by JR Yamanote Line to “Shibuya Station,” then transfer to Tokyu Toyoko Line and ride for approx. 5-10 minutes to “Gakugei-daigaku Station” or “Toritsu-daigaku Station.”
  • Sotoshu Shumusho (Atago): Approx. 10 minutes by Toei Oedo Line to “Daimon Station,” then approx. 10 minutes walk. Alternatively, approx. 5 minutes walk from Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line “Kamiyacho Station.”

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Heal Travel Fatigue and Enrich Your Mind with Tokyo’s Zazen Experience

The vibrancy of Tokyo and the tranquility of ancient temples. Experiencing Zazen in Tokyo, with its two different faces, will bring profound emotion and new perspectives to your trip to Japan. Why not take a little time out from your busy travel schedule to try a meditation experience that finds inner peace?

This experience, blending authentic Zazen with traditional Japanese hospitality, will surely be deeply etched into your heart and become an unforgettable memory. Take this opportunity to experience a “mental detox during your trip” at a Zen temple in Tokyo.

Book your Zazen experience in Tokyo now and find inner peace!

One factor behind this is the presence of Enryaku-ji Temple, which is the head temple of the Tendai sect.

In such a temple-rich culture of Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, we have compiled temples where you can experience practices such as Zazen meditation and copying sutras.

Otsu City is located a short distance away, about 10 minutes by train from Kyoto Station, covering only two stations.

Why not try experiencing these hidden temples?

About Zen Sitting Meditation(Zazen)

What is Zen sitting meditation(Zazen)?

Zen means a person’s heart, and people practice Zen sitting meditation to face yourself and to rethink yourself.

Zen sitting meditation is a Buddhist practice method sitting in a correct posture and unites the spirit.

The effect of Zen sitting meditation is that if you concentrate on posture and breathing in a quiet environment, you will be able to relax by removing distracting thoughts.

And by focusing on breathing, you can increase your concentration.

It seems that you can gradually do it at first even if it is difficult.

Recommended Clothes When You Practice Zen Sitting Meditation

When you practice Zen sitting meditation, you keep sitting with your legs crossed for almost an hour.

So, relaxed pants are recommended, not tight pants.

Also, Zen sitting meditation is practiced barefoot.

Clothes that can be handled immediately such as socks are desirable.

How to Make Reservation

You can reserve on the website of each temples.

However, some of temples don’t have foreign language page.

And even if there was a English page, sometimes we cannot find a page for reservation.

If you couldn’t find page for reservation in your language, please ask hotel’s reception you stay.

Recently, I found some web site where you can make reservations.

Enryakuji Temple Lodging (Otsu City)

It seems you can add Zazen meditation or copying sutras experiences as options to your shukubo experience.

Both experiences are available for 1,100 yen each, and for the copying sutras experience, everything including brush, ink, inkstone, and paper will be provided. Please check the timing at the reception.

The Zazen meditation is scheduled for 11:00 AM for the morning session and 2:30 PM for the afternoon session. Advance reservation is required for Zazen, so please be aware.

From the rooms, large communal bath, and the restaurant where you can enjoy shojin ryori (vegetarian cuisine), you can have a panoramic view of Lake Biwa, and the night view is also highly praised.

Additionally, guests staying here can enjoy free admission to Enryakuji Temple, so don’t forget to inform the pilgrimage sites that you are a guest.

In the vicinity, there are many National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties, making it a journey with much to see besides the shukubo experience.

Basic Information about Enryakuji Temple Lodging

Enman-in (Otsu City)

You can experience various aspects of Japanese culture, such as tea ceremony and tosenkyo, besides Zazen, sutra copying, and Buddha copying.

Each experience costs 2,450 yen, but there’s a special plan where you can choose two experiences for 4,600 yen.

For Zazen, chairs are available for those who are unsure about sitting on the floor.

There’s also a lodging experience, where you can choose two Japanese culture experiences.

There are room-only plans and plans with meals included for dinner and breakfast, choosing between vegetarian cuisine or kaiseki cuisine.

As a lodging bonus, you can participate in the morning service at 7:30 am for free, and also visit the Important Cultural Property designated Chinden and Mitsui’s famous garden for free.

Enman-in, one of only 17 Monzeki temples nationwide, is a temple with a history of about 1,000 years. A Monzeki temple is a temple where members of the imperial family or other distinguished families serve as the head priest.

Basic Information about Enman-in

Saijo-in (Otsu City)

On the second Sunday, a Zazen session is held as part of the Hoen no Kai.

The sessions typically involve Zazen meditation, a Dharma talk, and prayers.

As dates may change, it is recommended to check the schedule on the official website before visiting.

Although it seems not primarily aimed at tourists, the temple aims to be easily accessible to visitors without any formalities.

During the Naviyaka Festival held in June, there are events such as a temple market with food trucks and dedicatory drum performances.

The temple offers a variety of Goshuin (temple stamps), which can also be purchased by mail.

Basic Information about Saijo-in

Ansho-ji (Otsu City)

Zazen sessions are held irregularly on Sundays. You can check the official website for announcements regarding session availability.

In addition to prior reservations, same-day registration is also possible, starting at 12:30 PM, with the session beginning at 1 PM.

The experience lasts about 30 minutes, starting with a 15-minute explanation followed by 15 minutes of Zazen meditation.

Since children can also participate, it could be a valuable experience for families.

While held irregularly, there are also sessions for sutra copying and drawing Buddha images, so those interested should check the official website.

Located near Lake Biwa, it’s a great spot to enjoy along with sightseeing and strolling.

Basic Information about Ansho-ji

Miidera Temple (Otsu City)

Miidera Temple, with a history of over 1200 years, has a vast precinct containing many buildings that include national treasures and cultural properties.

You can experience Zazen meditation in the Kannon-do and Tang-do halls.

Although online reservations are required 7 days in advance, guidance is provided to suit beginners, the elderly, and everyone in between, ensuring that anyone can participate with confidence.

Sutra copying and Buddha drawing experiences are offered at the Kannon-do, Tang-do, and Bimyoji temples. While reservations are required 7 days in advance for Kannon-do and Tang-do,

at Bimyoji, up to 6 people can participate without a reservation from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM.

There are also unique experiences like Yamabushi training, wrist rosary making, and special viewings of the private national treasure Kyakuden.

Furthermore, Myogon-in is opened as a shukubo (temple lodging), offering an exclusive plan of renting out the entire building to a single group per day.

Special experiences, such as special viewings of the national treasure Kyakuden and Zazen, are available exclusively for overnight guests.

With its vast precinct, it seems like you could enjoy a full day here.

Basic Information about Miidera Temple

Denkoin Temple (Otsu City)

A sutra copying session is held once a month at 1:00 PM.

For those busy in the morning, the afternoon session might be a more accessible time to participate.

With the station within a 5-minute walk, the temple is easily accessible, and nearby spots such as parks on elevated grounds and Lake Biwa are perfect for strolling.

Also, with supermarkets close by, locals could possibly participate in sutra copying sessions in between errands.

Founded in 1560, this historic temple offers a wonderful experience where you can forget the daily hustle and bustle and calm your mind.

Basic Information about Denkoin Temple

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MAP

Speaking of Kyoto sightseeing, visiting temples and shrines is popular, but do you know that you can experience Zen sitting meditation(Zazen) at temples?

“Zazen” allows you to look at yourself quietly and carefully.

Here are some recommended temples where you can experience Zen sitting meditation in Kyoto.

About Zen Sitting Meditation(Zazen)

What is Zen sitting meditation(Zazen)?

Zen means a person’s heart, and people practice Zen sitting meditation to face yourself and to rethink yourself.

Zen sitting meditation is a Buddhist practice method sitting in a correct posture and unites the spirit.

The effect of Zen sitting meditation is that if you concentrate on posture and breathing in a quiet environment, you will be able to relax by removing distracting thoughts.

And by focusing on breathing, you can increase your concentration.

It seems that you can gradually do it at first even if it is difficult.

Recommended Clothes When You Practice Zen Sitting Meditation

When you practice Zen sitting meditation, you keep sitting with your legs crossed for almost an hour.

So, relaxed pants are recommended, not tight pants.

Also, Zen sitting meditation is practiced barefoot.

Clothes that can be handled immediately such as socks are desirable.

How to Make Reservation

You can reserve on the website of each temples.

However, some of temples don’t have foreign language page.

And even if there was a English page, sometimes we cannot find a page for reservation.

If you couldn’t find page for reservation in your language, please ask hotel’s reception you stay.

Recently, I found some web site where you can make reservations.

Shokokuji Temple / Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City

image by pinterest.jp

Shokokuji is famous for its ceiling painting of dragon.

Zen sitting meditation experience event called the “Imakai” is held in Shokokuji Temple, which anyone can participate.

The feature is that there are many participants because Shokokuji temple is famous.

You can get mysterious feeling that concentrating on Zen sitting meditation with a lot of tourists.

Enkouji Temple / Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City

Enkoji temple is famous for autumn leaves.

And it is a temple where attractive Karesansui garden(a traditional Japanese dry garden) is in.

In Enkoji temple, Zen sitting meditation experience event is held every week from 6am.

Even if you are beginner, you will be taught carefully how to sit and breathe, so you don’t have to be nervous.

Speaking of Zen sitting meditation, being hit by a flat plate-shaped stick called “Keisaku” is famous.

It sounds a lot and it hurts, but it is indispensable for the Zen sitting meditation experience.

If you are interested in, why don’t try experiencing Zen sitting meditation when you go sightseeing the Enkouji Temple, which is located in Ichijoji Area.

https://jatrabridge.com/2019/05/12/548/

Nanzenji Temple / Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City

Nanzenji Temple is also a temple where you can experience Zen sitting meditation, which gathers many tourist, especially in cherry blossom season.

Located on the hill of Kyoto city where you can overlook around the town, it is sure that you can experience Zen sitting meditation in the fresh air.

Nanzenji Temple is also known for prestigious Zen temple in Japan.

Also, Nanzeinji temple is famous for a hydrophobic bridge that brings water from Biwako(Lake Biwa) in Shiga Prefecture.

The bridge is made of red bricks, and is famous as a tourist attraction in Kyoto.

Why don’t you stroll around the ground of the temple after Zen sitting meditation?

Note that reservations are required for group.

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Myoshinji Temple / Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City

Myoshinji Temple is known that the site is huge.

There are nearly 60 buildings in the site, so it is probably hard to see all of the building.

Simple and less decorative appearance is a feature of Zen temple.

It may be a good idea to refresh your mind over a day with Zen sitting meditation and stroll around the ground of Myoshinji Temple.

Tenryuji Temple / Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City

Tenryuji Temple is a world cultural heritage.

The site is vast, and is famous for its mind blowing Unryu figure, a figure of doragon.

You can experience Zen sitting meditation even if you are a beginner, and reservation is not necessary.

Moreover, although usually Zen sitting meditation events are held early in the morning, the event in Tenryuji Temple begins from 9am.

Because the event begins relatively late, it is easier to participate even if the hotel you stay was far from Tenryuji Temple.

A vast garden where you can enjoy the landscape in each seasons.

Why do not you spend a quiet time with Zen sitting meditation?

Kenninji Temple / Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City

Kenninji Temple is the oldest Zen temple in Japan.

You will feel different goodness after Zen sitting meditation from just visiting for sightseeing.

It is the main headquarters of the Rinzai Sect Kenninji group, so there are many temples around it.

Anybody can participate Zen sitting meditation in Kenninji Temple, if you have a willing.

To make a reservation, you need to send email below.

Daihonzan Kenninji Temple, Faculty of Education

email address:info@kenninji.jp

Shorinji Temple / Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City

One of Tofuku-ji’s towers is Bishamondo Shorinji Temple.

Especially in the autumn season, compared to Tofuku-ji Temple, where many tourists visit, Shorinji Temple is relatively quiet, so it is good environment for Zen sitting meditation.

Zen sitting meditation experience takes about an hour.

In the meantime, concentrate your mind in one place and take a close look at yourself.

Even beginners can participate in the experience easily.

Let’s try at Zen sitting meditation with your easy-to-seat position.

Try Zen Sitting Meditation(Zazen) in Kyoto

Zen sitting meditation experience usually finish in 1 hour, so it is easy to put it into your trip.

Also, spending time away from your daily life and facing yourself, should be a different travel.

Let’s try Zen sitting meditation experience.

https://jatrabridge.com/2024/02/22/10981/6-temples-in-shiga-where-experience-zazen-meditation/

https://jatrabridge.com/2025/04/29/12901/kyoto-world-heritage-site-special-experience-at-toji-temple-a-soul-cleansing-journey-through-japan-with-a-monk-guided-private-tour-sutra-copying/

https://jatrabridge.com/2023/12/23/7593/