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  4. Kyoto Zen Meditation & Garden Tour with Shojin Lunch
Tofuku-ji Temple
Tofuku-ji Temple
Kyoto Zen Tour
Kyoto Zen Tour
Tofuku-ji Temple
Tofuku-ji Temple
Kyoto

Kyoto Zen Meditation & Garden Tour with Shojin Lunch

English
4 hours and 30 minutes
(451)
Immerse yourself in tranquility with our Kyoto Zen Meditation and Garden Tour, where you'll practice zazen meditation, explore a serene Zen garden, and savor a traditional Shojin meal at a historic temple.

  • Zazen meditation (approx. 1 hour)
  • Site admissions
  • Shojin Buddhist lunch
  • English-speaking local guide
  • Tour photos
What's not included
  • Transportation to/from the meeting point
  • Gratuities

Tour Highlights

  • Practice zazen meditation at a renowned Kyoto Zen temple

  • Explore the minimalist beauty of a Zen garden

  • Enjoy a traditional Shojin vegan meal in a historic setting

  • Learn from an experienced, English-speaking local guide

  • Receive photos of your tour experience via email

  • Benefit from a small group setting for a personalized experience

Essentials to Know Before Booking

  • Participants must be 12 years or older.

  • Tours starting at 10:45 include lunch at 14:15, after the meditation session. Please eat breakfast or brunch in advance.

  • The itinerary includes areas not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers.

  • This tour is not recommended for guests with mobility issues. A private tour is recommended if you have difficulty walking.

  • Dietary requests or food allergies must be communicated at least one day in advance.

  • Gluten-free meals are not available.

  • Same-day dietary requests cannot be accommodated.

  • Allergy-free meals cannot be guaranteed, as food is prepared in external kitchens. Substitutions may not always be possible.

  • Tours start on time to respect all participants.

  • Late arrivals who miss the group cannot join, reschedule, or receive a refund.

  • During the zazen meditation, private conversations are not permitted. Reading materials will be provided for silent use.

  • Japan experiences extreme seasonal temperatures, ranging from hot summers to cold winters. Please dress accordingly.

  • Temple floors can be cold in winter. Thick socks are recommended.

Meet directly at this location to join the tour
Family Mart Nakai Tofukuji Store, 12 Chome-232 Honmachi, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto

  • Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time.

Reviews

Kyoto Zen Meditation & Garden Tour with Shojin Lunch
451 reviews
Powered by TripAdvisor
1/1
A Transformative Zen Experience I’ll Carry With Me
This was, without question, one of the most meaningful experiences of my entire two-week trip to Japan. I had always been curious about Zen meditation, but this tour did more than answer my questions—it genuinely inspired me to begin incorporating the practice into my daily life.
Michael L
March 20, 2026
Highly Recommend This Tour
I had a great experience on this tour in Kyoto. From the very beginning, our tour guide was extraordinarily friendly, warm, and welcoming. She explained everything in a very clear and insightful way.
Vero B
March 25, 2026
Michael L
March 20, 2026
A Transformative Zen Experience I’ll Carry With Me
This was, without question, one of the most meaningful experiences of my entire two-week trip to Japan. I had always been curious about Zen meditation, but this tour did more than answer my questions—it genuinely inspired me to begin incorporating the practice into my daily life.
Vero B
March 25, 2026
Highly Recommend This Tour
I had a great experience on this tour in Kyoto. From the very beginning, our tour guide was extraordinarily friendly, warm, and welcoming. She explained everything in a very clear and insightful way.

Itinerary

12 Chome Honmachi, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0981

Start your spiritual journey by meeting your guide and group outside Tofukuji Station Exit 2, next to FamilyMart. After a brief overview of the day’s activities, you’ll set out for your first destination.

2

Duration: 3 hours and 15 minutes

Discover the tranquility of the Zen Garden, explore the main hall of Tofuku-ji Temple, and engage in a Zen meditation session led by an experienced practitioner.

Tofuku-ji Temple

964 Higashikawaracho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto

The tour wraps up near Chishaku-in Temple.

Chishaku-in Temple

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, photography is allowed in the Zen garden. However, cameras are not permitted during the meditation session to maintain a quiet and respectful environment.

This tour involves walking and sitting on the floor, which may be difficult for travelers with mobility limitations. Please contact us before booking to discuss your needs and possible accommodations.

The meal served is Shojin Ryori, a traditional Buddhist meal. If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, please inform us in advance so we can check whether accommodations are possible.

Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time to allow for check-in and to avoid missing any part of the tour.

The tour runs rain or shine, as most activities take place indoors or in covered areas. In extreme weather, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled for safety, with refund or rebooking options offered.

Yes, solo travelers are welcome to join this tour. Please note that minimum participant requirements may apply, so availability is subject to confirmation at the time of booking.

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Adults
Ages 12-100
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