Tokyo: Kinryu-ji Temple and Asakusa Zen Walking Tour

Take a step into the serene world of Tokyo’s spiritual heritage on this Kinryu-ji Temple and Asakusa Zen Walking Tour. Enjoy the timeless rituals of Zen Buddhism, from the iconic Sensoji Temple to the guided meditation at Kinryu-ji. Along the way, gain insight into the profound wisdom that has shaped this ancient city. Whether you’re a seeker of inner peace or simply curious about Japanese culture, this experience promises to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• A 3-hour guided walking tour of Asakusa, including visits to Sensō-ji Temple and the historic Kinryu-ji Zen temple.
• Guided Zazen meditation session led by a Buddhist monk at Kinryu-ji Temple.
• Opportunity to learn about incorporating Zen wisdom into daily life through personal engagement with the monk.
• Includes a traditional matcha tea experience and one-on-one counseling with the monk.
• The tour starts at the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center and can be accessed via subway or bus.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The "Tokyo: Kinryu-ji Temple and Asakusa Zen Walking Tour" is a 3-hour guided tour that takes visitors through the cultural and historical landmarks of Asakusa, including the iconic Sensō-ji Temple.

Priced from $101.33 per person, the tour is conducted in English and features a visit to the centuries-old Kinryu-ji Temple, where participants engage in a Zazen meditation experience led by a Buddhist monk.

The tour starts at the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center and ends at a nearby location.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting at the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, the tour takes visitors on a journey through the cultural highlights of the area.

First, it stops at the iconic Kaminarimon gate for a 15-minute photo opportunity.

Next, the group heads to Sensō-ji Temple for a 30-minute guided tour, exploring the history and significance of this ancient Buddhist temple.

The main highlight is a visit to Kinryu-ji Temple, a historic Zen temple with over 400 years of history.

Here, visitors will experience a zazen meditation session led by a monk and learn the techniques of posture, breathing, and calming the mind.

The tour ends at the Kinryu-ji Temple.

Cultural Experience

As the core focus of the tour, the cultural experience allows participants to enjoy the rich history and traditions centered around Senso-ji Temple.

The tour features:

1. A guided tour of Senso-ji, one of Tokyo’s most iconic Buddhist temples.

2. A Zazen meditation session at Kinryuji, a historic Zen temple, where participants learn proper posture, breathing, and calming techniques from a monk.

3. An opportunity to experience the preparation and tasting of traditional matcha tea.

4. One-on-one time with a monk for personal counseling and insights on incorporating Zen wisdom into daily life.

Personal Interaction

Why not dive deeper into the personal interactions offered on this tour? Participants will have the chance to engage one-on-one with a Zen monk for counseling about personal concerns.

This provides a unique opportunity to learn how to incorporate Zen wisdom into daily life. The tour also includes time for participants to ask questions and gain insights from the monk’s perspective.

Through these meaningful exchanges, guests can deepen their understanding of Zen Buddhism and its practical applications. This personal engagement is a highlight of the tour, offering a truly immersive cultural experience.

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Getting There

The tour begins at the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, located in the heart of the Asakusa district.

Participants should arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will leave promptly.

Getting to the meeting point is straightforward:

1. By Subway: Take the Ginza, Asakusa, or Skytree line to Asakusa Station, which is a 5-minute walk from the meeting point.

2. By Bus: Several bus routes stop near the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, including the Asakusa Shuttle Bus.

3. By Taxi: Taxis are readily available in the Asakusa area and can drop you off directly at the meeting point.

4. On Foot: The meeting point is easily accessible for those staying in the Asakusa neighborhood.

What to Expect

Participants can expect an immersive exploration of Asakusa’s rich cultural heritage and the serenity of a historic Zen temple. The tour begins at the iconic Kaminarimon gate, followed by a guided visit to Sensō-ji Temple. Next, visitors will experience a deep dive into Zen Buddhism at Kinryu-ji Temple, where they’ll learn Zazen meditation techniques from a monk and enjoy a matcha tea ceremony. Throughout the tour, there will be opportunities for personal interaction, allowing participants to seek guidance and insights to incorporate Zen wisdom into their daily lives.

Highlights	Duration	Inclusion
Kaminarimon	15 mins	Photo stop
Sensō-ji Temple	30 mins	Guided tour
Kinryu-ji Temple	1.5 hrs	Visit, Zazen, Matcha tea
Personalized Guidance	N/A	Counseling, Q&A

Pricing and Booking

This tour is priced at $101.33 per person.

The tour lasts 3 hours and is conducted in English. Visitors have the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Plus, customers can reserve their spot and pay nothing today.

To book the tour, visitors should:

1. Select their desired date and time.
2. Provide their contact information.
3. Review the tour details and cancellation policy.
4. Confirm their booking and pay the full amount.

The tour departs promptly, so it’s essential for participants to arrive 10 minutes early at the designated meeting point.

Important Notes

Although the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or children, participants should arrive 10 minutes early at the designated meeting point in front of the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center.

The tour will depart promptly, so it’s crucial to be on time. Participants can expect to spend around 3 hours exploring the highlights, including Kaminarimon, Sensoji Temple, and Kinryuji Temple.

Please note that the itinerary is subject to change. The tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or other private expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour, but visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting the cultural activities. It’s best to check with the tour guide on any specific photography guidelines or restrictions at each location.

How Much Cash Should I Bring for Incidentals?

The tour overview doesn’t specify any incidental costs, so you’ll likely only need enough cash to cover any optional purchases or donations at the temples. An extra $20-$30 should be sufficient for most travelers.

Are Restrooms Available at the Temples?

Restrooms are generally available at major temples in Japan. During the tour, visitors will have the opportunity to use facilities at Sensō-ji Temple and Kinryu-ji Temple as needed. Accessibility may vary, so participants should inquire with the tour guide if they have any specific requirements.

Can I Join the Tour With a Group of Friends?

You can join the tour with a group of friends. The tour accommodates groups, and you can book tickets for your entire party. Just be sure to arrive on time, as the tour leaves promptly.

Is There an Age Limit for Participating in the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify an age limit, but it notes it’s not suitable for children. Adults of all ages can participate, though the zazen meditation and historical content may be better suited for older participants.

The Sum Up

The Kinryu-ji Temple and Asakusa Zen Walking Tour offers a unique opportunity to take in Tokyo’s serene spiritual heritage. Participants will explore iconic sites, engage in a Zazen meditation session, and receive personal insights from a Buddhist monk, creating a profound cultural experience. With its engaging itinerary and guided expertise, this tour provides an unparalleled way to connect with the city’s Zen Buddhist traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: