Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kyoto

Arrive in Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital.
Transfer to your traditional ryokan (Japanese inn), where you’ll settle into a peaceful, serene environment.
Welcome tea ceremony and orientation session, followed by an introduction to Zen Buddhism and mindfulness practices.
Evening walk through Maruyama Park to start your connection with the tranquility of Kyoto.
Restful night at the ryokan.

Day 2: Zen Meditation & Kinkaku-ji

Start your day with a morning Zen meditation session (zazen) at a local temple.
Visit the iconic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), one of Japan’s most famous Zen temples. Meditate and reflect in its peaceful garden.
Lunch at a traditional Japanese restaurant, followed by a guided walk through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove for more mindfulness practice.
Afternoon calligraphy workshop (shodo), where you’ll practice the art of mindful writing.
Evening reflection circle to share experiences and deepen your mindfulness practice.

Day 3: Sacred Nara & The Great Buddha

Visit Nara, Japan’s ancient capital, to see Todai-ji Temple and the awe-inspiring Great Buddha statue.
Spend the afternoon in Nara Park, practicing walking meditation amid the peaceful surroundings.
Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony at a historical tea house, where you’ll learn about the art of tea and its meditative aspects.
Evening group meditation session and personal reflection time.

Day 4: Mount Koya & Shingon Buddhism

Early morning departure for Mount Koya, a UNESCO World Heritage site and center of Shingon Buddhism.
Explore the sacred cemetery of Okunoin, the resting place of thousands of monks.
Participate in a guided meditation session and evening chanting with monks in a mountain temple.
Stay overnight in a temple lodging, where you’ll experience the tranquility of temple life, including a simple, nourishing vegetarian meal.

Day 5: Zen Gardens & Cultural Experiences

Morning visit to the famous Ryoan-ji Zen Garden, where you will meditate in front of the minimalist rock garden and learn about the principles of Zen design.
Lunch at a local restaurant featuring shojin ryori, the traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine.
Afternoon calligraphy and incense appreciation workshop (kōdō), followed by free time for personal reflection and journaling.
Evening group sharing circle to reflect on the journey and insights gained.

Day 6: Kyoto Exploration & Departure

Spend the morning visiting Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of red torii gates. Engage in a final meditation session in the tranquil surroundings.
Enjoy a farewell lunch in Kyoto’s Gion district, famous for its historical geisha culture.
Departure or continue your journey in Japan with optional extensions.