Kyoto: Zen Meditation and Garden Tour at a Temple With Lunch

Exploring the tranquil heart of Kyoto, this immersive tour offers a chance to experience the serene practices of Zen Buddhism. Visitors will explore meditation, wander serene gardens, and savor a traditional vegetarian meal – all while gaining insights from an expert guide. With a small group size, the experience promises an intimate connection to the wisdom and rhythms of this ancient spiritual tradition. What secrets might this tour unveil about the contemplative path of Zen?

This experience made our article of Visiting Kyoto Prefecture? We Rank The Top 8 Tours.

Key Points

• This 4.5-hour tour in Kyoto offers an immersive experience in Zen meditation and serene Zen gardens at major temples.
• Participants engage in a one-hour Zazen meditation session and enjoy a traditional Buddhist vegetarian meal (Shojin Ryori) served by Zen monks.
• The intimate group size is limited to 7 people, and a live English-speaking guide leads the tour.
• Visitors can explore Zen gardens, discuss Zen insights with onsite monks, and learn about Zen meditation practice from the local guide.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 12 or individuals with gluten intolerance, and punctuality is required.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Zen Meditation and Garden Tour in Kyoto offers participants a unique opportunity to engage in a 4.5-hour immersive experience at a temple.

With a price from $93.84 per person, the small-group tour is limited to just 7 participants, ensuring an intimate setting.

The live English-speaking guide leads the group through several key sites, including Tofukuji Temple and Shōrin-ji (Bishamon-dō) Temple.

Travelers can enjoy a traditional vegetarian meal and explore the tranquil Zen gardens.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay-later booking option provide added flexibility.

Experience and Itinerary

Participants engage in Zazen meditation at one of five major Zen temples in Kyoto, seeing the tranquil atmosphere.

The tour visits Tofukuji Station, Kōmyō-in Temple, Tofukuji Temple, Shōrin-ji (Bishamon-dō) Temple, a local restaurant, and a local café.

They experience the serene Zen garden with guide commentary and enjoy a traditional Buddhist vegetarian meal (Shojin Ryori) historically served by Zen monks.

The one-hour Zazen session focuses on posture and breathing techniques, followed by discussions with monks about Zen insights.

Meditation and Culinary Insights

As part of the tour, participants learn about Zen meditation practice from a local guide.

They engage in a one-hour zazen session, focusing on proper posture and breathing techniques.

After the meditation, travelers have the opportunity to discuss Zen insights with the onsite monks.

The experience also includes a traditional vegetarian meal, known as Shojin Ryori, which has historically been served by Zen monks.

This meal emphasizes fresh vegetables, mushrooms, and seaweed, offering a unique culinary exploration alongside the spiritual practice.

Meeting Point and Important Information

Meeting for the tour takes place outside Tofukuji Station’s EXIT 2, right next to the Family Mart convenience store.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 12 or those with gluten intolerance. It’s essential to arrive on time as the tour starts promptly, and late arrivals won’t be accommodated.

Bring water and wear a hat during hot summer months. The experience provides an in-depth exploration of Zen Buddhism, including a 1-hour meditation session and a traditional vegetarian meal.

With a maximum of 7 participants, the small group size ensures an intimate and meaningful experience.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

According to customer reviews, the Zen Meditation and Garden Tour in Kyoto has an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 23 reviews.

Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, meaningful experiences, and excellent photography skills. Reviewers express satisfaction with the depth of information provided about Buddhism and temple history.

The guide receives a top rating of 5 out of 5, while the value for money is rated 4.8 out of 5.

Taking in Zen Practices at Kyoto’s Temples

The Zen Meditation and Garden Tour in Kyoto offers visitors a chance to enjoy the tranquil practices and stunning landscapes that have captivated devotees for centuries.

The experience begins with a guided zazen session, where participants learn proper meditation posture and breathing techniques from a local expert.

After, they engage in thoughtful discussions with monks, gaining deeper insights into Zen philosophy.

Guests then explore meticulously maintained Zen gardens, discovering the symbolic meanings behind the carefully curated elements.

The tour culminates with a traditional vegetarian lunch, allowing participants to savor the flavors that have nourished devotees for generations.

The Tranquility of Zen Gardens

As visitors explore the meticulously maintained Zen gardens, they’re captivated by the serene landscapes that exemplify the principles of Japanese garden design.

The gardens showcase:

1. Carefully curated natural elements, such as rocks, water features, and carefully pruned foliage, which create a sense of balance and harmony.

2. Meandering pathways that invite visitors to slow down, pause, and appreciate the beauty around them.

3. Raked gravel or sand gardens, which symbolize the fluidity of life and encourage contemplation.

Through these thoughtful design elements, the Zen gardens offer a peaceful respite, inviting visitors to connect with the present moment and find inner tranquility.

Savoring the Flavors of Shojin Ryori

After experiencing the tranquility of Zen gardens, visitors can savor the unique flavors of Shojin Ryori, the traditional vegetarian cuisine historically served by Zen Buddhist monks.

This meal emphasizes fresh vegetables, mushrooms, and seaweed, showcasing the purity and simplicity at the heart of Zen philosophy.

Guided by a local expert, guests will learn about the preparation techniques and symbolism behind each dish.

The carefully curated menu provides a sensory journey, allowing participants to fully enjoy the contemplative atmosphere of the temple and deepen their understanding of Zen Buddhist culinary traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Meditation Experience Required to Join the Tour?

No, prior meditation experience is not required to join the tour. The guide will provide instructions and lead participants through the zazen meditation session, catering to all levels.

Can the Vegetarian Meal Be Adjusted for Dietary Restrictions?

The tour can accommodate dietary restrictions, including gluten intolerance, if notified in advance. However, the traditional vegetarian meal is not adjustable, as it’s part of the cultural experience. Guests with special needs should discuss options when booking.

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

The tour involves moderate walking of around 1.5 to 2 miles over the 4.5-hour duration. Visitors can expect to walk between temples and sites, though the pace is leisurely with frequent stops for meditation and commentary.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no mention of an option to extend the tour duration. The itinerary indicates the tour lasts 4.5 hours, and the tour description doesn’t suggest any possibilities for extending it. Participants should plan accordingly based on the fixed tour length provided.

What Is the Group Size Range for This Tour?

The group size for this tour is limited to 7 participants. The tour overview states it’s a "small group size: Limited to 7 participants", providing an intimate and personalized experience.

The Sum Up

This Zen meditation and garden tour in Kyoto offers a deeply immersive experience. Visitors can practice Zazen meditation, explore serene Zen gardens, and savor a traditional Buddhist vegetarian meal – all while benefiting from personalized guidance. With a small group size, this tour provides an intimate and meaningful way to connect with Zen practices and culinary traditions in the heart of Kyoto.

You can check availability for your dates here: