Zazen (seated Zen meditation) is open to everyone in Japan, from complete beginners to experienced practitioners. Temples across the country offer morning meditation sessions where you sit alongside monks in centuries-old halls. It is one of the most transformative experiences you can have in Japan.
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Best Temples for Zazen
Tokyo
Rinso-in Temple (Komagome) offers free Sunday morning zazen at 7 AM. The head monk gives brief English instructions. Sessions last 30 minutes followed by tea. No reservation needed.
Kamakura
Engaku-ji Temple holds zazen sessions every Saturday and Sunday morning. The setting in a forested valley with temple bells ringing is deeply peaceful. 500 yen.
Kyoto
Shunkoin Temple is famous for English-language meditation sessions led by a bilingual monk. 2,000 yen for a 90-minute session including meditation instruction, temple tour, and tea.
Eiheiji Temple (Fukui)
One of Zen Buddhism’s two head temples. Offers overnight stays where you follow the monks’ schedule: wake at 3:30 AM, morning chanting, zazen, vegetarian meals. An intense but life-changing experience. 8,000 yen per night.
Meditation Tips
- Wear comfortable clothes: Loose pants or leggings work best
- Don’t worry about doing it wrong: Monks are patient with beginners
- The stick: In some temples, a monk walks with a wooden stick (keisaku). A tap on the shoulders is not punishment but is meant to help focus. You can decline.
Find Inner Peace, Then Hit the Road
Start your day with morning meditation, then experience the thrill of driving a JDM legend through mountain passes. Book a mindful driving experience.
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Step into the world of “Fast & Furious” with our exclusive Daikoku Tour!
Experience the legendary car meet atmosphere for yourself. Make it the ultimate highlight of your Tokyo trip!
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