Itinerary
The private Zen meditation hall is located a five minute bus/taxi ride from Kyoto Station, near Nishi Honganji temple, in a traditional Kyoto home (machiya). The activity includes a thorough 90 minute introduction to both the theory and practice of Zen meditation, emphasizing the proper posture for the Zen form of "mindfulness" meditation. The introduction is followed by the opportunity to experience a combination of two 20 minute periods of seated meditation (zazen) interspersed with 10 minutes of walking meditation (kinhin). Zen meditation can be performed using either the traditional lotus or half lotus postures or, alternatively, on a chair for those who find this more comfortable. The key elements of Zen meditation are breath and mind control, using the proper posture. The activity ends with 30 minutes for tea and a traditional Kyoto sweet, both included in the price. Any questions that participants may have can be asked at this time. The goal of this activity is for participants to feel confident, should they wish, to continue to meditate on their own, understanding both how to meditate within the Zen tradition as well as its purpose.
Stop At:
• Nishi Honganji, Horikawa-dori hanayamachi-sagaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto 600-8358 Kyoto Prefecture
See Availability.
Hotel Granvia Kyoto, JR京都駅 Central Entrance, Higashishiokōjichō, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8216, Japan
01:30 PM
3 hours 30 minutes(approx.)
Returns to original departure point
Not wheelchair accessible
Near public transportation
Infants must sit on laps
Not recommended for travelers with back problems
Most travelers can participate
This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Posted By : Jonathan_V
I really enjoyed the afternoon with Brian and learnt a lot. I left feeling that I'd had an authentic experience that was different from the standard temples and tours elsewhere. First thing to mention is that it was much longer than expected - It ran from 1.30 until 6pm and could've gone on for longer - so allow the whole afternoon. The descrption undersells what it actually is - you get an overview and introduction from an experienced lecturer and published academic with a wealth of knowledge and insights into Buddhism and many aspects of Japanese culture and Kyoto. The fact that Brian is American also avoids any language barriers and means that time is spent getting to understand the topic at hand.
Rating :
Posted On : 2024-02-05
Posted By : John_M
What a beautiful and unique afternoon we spent. In a few hours we took a deeper dive into the history and practice of Zen meditation. Brian was prompt, kind and incredibly knowledgeable. We had time to explore a temple, learn posture and both sit and walk meditate.
Rating :
Posted On : 2024-01-20
Posted By : Doinita98
This experience exceeded by far our expectations. Brian is a talented story teller, very calm, kind and has lots of knowledge! Because we had so many questions and both our schedules allowed, he extended our session free of charge. We are very grateful that we had the honour to meet Brian and we highly recommend this unique experience!
Rating :
Posted On : 2023-10-16
Posted By : Amy_S
Brian is great teacher and storyteller. He and my 18 year old son made a great connection discussing many religions. The meditation lesson was very clear and helpful.
Rating :
Posted On : 2023-06-23
Posted By : john_f
Brian was a knowledgable and engaging teacher. His discussion provided me with a basic understanding of Buddhism and meditation. I most enjoyed the time spent actually mediating.
Rating :
Posted On : 2023-06-07
