Kyoto: Zen meditation and tea ceremony at a hidden temple

You can enjoy authentic meditation and a tea ceremony at a nature-rich temple away from the city center.
• Overview of the Experience
Experience a unique opportunity to practice zazen with Mr. Shizan Fujioka, the abbot of Jojuuji Temple. After zazen, participate in a Sencha-do tea ceremony, enjoying tea brewed by a tea master and seasonal Japanese sweets while admiring the garden. A photographer will capture your moments, and you will receive the photos as a keepsake.

• About the Location
Jojuuji Temple, founded in 810, has a rich history of over 1,200 years. Originally a samurai residence, it is now a temple of the Ōbaku sect of Zen Buddhism. The temple features a sacred staircase surrounded by nature, once reserved for Zen practitioners. Designated a Tangible Cultural Property, it maintains a historical atmosphere without modern amenities like air conditioning.

• About the Host
Mr. Shizan Fujioka is dedicated to promoting Jojuuji Temple’s cultural value and preservation. After rigorous training at Manpukuji Temple, he welcomes visitors to experience Zen practice with an open mind. He looks forward to sharing and learning through interactions with international guests.

• About Zen and Ōbaku Zen Buddhism
Zen is a practice aimed at quieting the mind and unifying the spirit. The Ōbaku sect, influenced by Chinese Zen teachings, has its own unique cultural and aesthetic contributions that have shaped Japanese Zen.

• About Sen-cha-do
Sen-cha-do is a tea ceremony focusing on sencha (roasted tea leaves). It is linked to the Ōbaku school and developed to complement Zen practice. The ceremony features carefully brewed tea and seasonal Japanese sweets.

※ Flow of the Day
1. Meet at Jojuuji Temple: Meeting at the designated time.
2. Zazen Experience: Participate in two 20-minute zazen sessions.
3. Q&A Session: Join a Q&A session with the monks at Hojo.
4. Senchado Tea Ceremony: Take part in the Senchado tea ceremony at Hojo.

※ Duration
The experience lasts about 2.5 hours, including Zen meditation, the Q&A session, and the tea ceremony.

※ Target Audience
Ideal for those interested in historical Zen practice and a sacred tea ceremony. Open to all ages; wheelchair users may need assistance due to stairs. Those uncomfortable with traditional zazen postures can sit comfortably.

※ What to Bring and Wear
Wear appropriate clothing for the season: light in summer, warmer in winter.

※ Cancellation Policy
Full refunds are available for cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour. No refunds for cancellations after this period.

The tour will commence by 9:45. Guests arriving late are kindly requested to follow the staff's instructions. And we will prioritize seating for those with earlier reservations.

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لضمان التوفر، احجز في أقرب وقت ممكن. الحجز المبكر يستحق النظر خاصة إذا كنت تخطط للرحلة خلال موسم الذروة مثل العطلات العامة أو عطلات نهاية الأسبوع.

يمكنك إلغاء هذه الرحلة بدون تكلفة حتى 24 ساعات قبل بدء الرحلة. إذا قمت بالإلغاء بعد 24 ساعات أو لم تحضر في الرحلة، فسيتم تحصيل السعر الكامل للنشاط. التأخر في الاستلام أو المغادرة سيعتبر كعدم حضور.