Kyoto Zen Meditation & Garden Tour at a Zen Temple with Lunch

Begin your journey by immersing yourself in the tranquil essence of Zen at a garden designed with Zen principles in mind. A knowledgeable local guide will walk you through the garden, providing insights into the philosophy behind Zen and how it influences the practice of meditation. This peaceful setting will prepare you for your next experience engaging in Zen meditation itself, where you can learn to quiet your mind and embrace the principles of mindfulness and simplicity. The Zen garden serves as the perfect environment to appreciate the beauty of nature and the meditative practices that are central to Zen.

Following the garden experience, the tour will lead you to Tofukuji Zen Temple, one of Kyoto’s five Great Zen Temples, steeped in history and dating back to the 13th century. Tofukuji has long served as a retreat for Zen monks and is revered for its impressive gardens and architectural beauty. After exploring the temple, you will make your way to a smaller, intimate temple within Tofukuji that is specifically dedicated to zazen (seated meditation). Here, you will have the opportunity to participate in a Zen meditation session, deepening your connection to the practice and the spiritual tranquility that defines Zen Buddhism.