Step into a world of calm and mindfulness with our Kyoto Zen Meditation & Garden Tour. This unique experience takes you to one of Kyoto's renowned Zen temples, where you'll delve into the practice of Zen meditation. Under the guidance of a local expert, you'll learn the techniques of "zazen," a form of meditation that encourages inner peace and concentration. It's a wonderful opportunity to unwind and find a deeper sense of focus in a beautiful, serene setting.

After your meditation session, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the temple's exquisite Zen garden. Known for its minimalist design and tranquil ambiance, the garden is a perfect place to reflect and absorb the peaceful energy around you. Your guide will provide interesting insights, adding depth to your experience. The tour concludes with a delightful traditional Sho-jin meal, a vegetarian cuisine prepared in the Zen monastic tradition, offering a taste of the simple yet profound lifestyle of Zen monks.

Tour Highlights

Practice zazen meditation at a renowned Kyoto Zen temple
Explore the minimalist beauty of a Zen garden
Enjoy a traditional Sho-jin 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

What's Covered

Zazen Meditation Experience for 1 hour
All venue entrance fees
Guided tour of the Zen Garden
Sho-jin Buddhist vegan lunch
English-speaking guide assistance
Photo memories sent post-tour

What's Extra

Personal purchases
Tips for the guide
Transportation to and from the temple

Essentials to Know Before Booking

Tour is suitable for individuals 12 years and older.
If your tour starts at 10:45, plan to have lunch at 14:15; eat well beforehand.
Tours start on time to respect all attendees.
No entry, refunds, or rescheduling for latecomers.
Silence is required during zazen to maintain a meditative environment.
Free booking changes are allowed up to 24 hours before the tour, based on availability.

Reviews

Kyoto Zen Meditation & Garden Tour at a Zen Temple with traditional Sho-jin lunch

246 reviews

1/1

Amazing tour with a kind host

Yutaka is a very kind host with amazing insights and information on temples we visited and Japanese culture in general. Highly recommend. He also prepared us well for the meditation, which I’ll forever treasure. Arigato gozaimas 🙏

Agnes D

August 2, 2025

Perfect Zen Experience

What an amazing and memorable day!! Our guide Yutaka was so knowledgeable and kind. We visited a zen garden and he explained the meaning behind the style and elements. He gave us time to relax and meditate there, it was beautiful to take in the sights and sounds. Next was a meditation at a temple with a monk as our guide. It felt amazing to clear our minds and make space to take in all the beauty of our travels. Followed by an absolutely delicious vegetarian lunch. The ingredients were so fresh and everything prepared with care. We had an amazing unforgettable day and Yutaka made it so special. We’re so happy we chose this experience, highly recommend it as a break from the bustle and rush of sightseeing. It feels amazing to slow down, clear your mind and soak in the beauty.

shari b

August 2, 2025

Amazing tour with a kind host

Agnes D

August 2, 2025

Perfect Zen Experience

shari b

August 2, 2025

Itinerary

Tofukuji Station

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

Start your spiritual journey by meeting your guide and group at Tofukuji Station. Here, you'll get a brief overview of the day's activities and set out for your first destination.

Tofuku-ji Temple

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.