Private Zen Retreat in Kyoto Shisendo Temple Before Opening

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3 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: Japanese and 3 more

Kyoto is one of the most visited cities in the world. This morning shows you the other Kyoto: still, unhurried and entirely your own.

Shisendo was built in 1641 by Ishikawa Jozan, a samurai who left his career to live as a poet. He made it a place to step away from the world. On this morning, it does the same for you. The temple opens early for one party only, before any other visitor arrives.

Zazen is simple. You sit, you breathe and you let your thoughts settle. It suits anyone who wants to rest a tired mind, or to start the day with a clearer head.

Then cross the lane to The SEN East, our traditional Japanese house, and pause over tea and a seasonal wagashi among works by Kyoto artists.

Everything is arranged for you, from your hotel door and back. A morning to rest, to think clearly, and to return to your day lighter than you began it.

What's Included

Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Kyoto city, by premium minivan or taxi (for some hotels, we may ask you to meet us at a nearby pick-up point).
Admission to Shisendo, including the private opening before public hours.
Private English interpreter
Zazen guided by the priest of Shisendo, seated on a traditional zafu cushion.
Calligraphy at The SEN East, if you wish.
Tea and a seasonal wagashi at The SEN East.
Sightseeing after the morning
Artwork purchases

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

We pick you up at the main entrance of your hotel or ryokan in Kyoto city. Your host will be waiting a few minutes before your pick-up time. If you are staying outside the city, or cars cannot stop at your entrance, we will contact you by the day before with a nearby pick-up point. At the end of the morning, we can take you back to your hotel or on to your next stop in Kyoto.

OR
Meeting point

Meet your host at the main gate of Shisendo at 7:50, ten minutes before the start. The gate will still be closed to the public; your host will be waiting outside with a "The SEN" sign. Shisendo is a short walk uphill from Ichijoji Station (Eizan Railway).

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 3 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Shisendo Temple

    Shisendo opens for your party alone before its gates open to the public. Walk the quiet rooms of this 17th-century hermitage, then sit in zazen with the priest of Shisendo, facing one of Kyoto's most admired gardens in the morning light. A slower kind of Kyoto. This is a morning to switch off, not to sightsee: no queues, no tour groups, no rush. Just your party, the priest of Shisendo and a garden tended for almost four centuries. No experience of meditation is needed. The priest guides you through posture and breathing, with an English interpreter at your side throughout. You sit on a firm, round zafu cushion, which makes the posture easier to hold. Admission to Shisendo, the private opening, zazen, tea and wagashi, and hotel transfers are all included, so there is nothing to arrange on the day. Couples, families and small groups of friends are welcome: one party per morning, for up to six guests. For larger groups, please get in touch and we will be happy to arrange it.

    1 hour • Admission ticket included
  • 2
    Shisendo Temple

    Just across the lane from Shisendo, less than a minute's walk away, is The SEN East, our traditional Japanese house. Pause here for a short rest over tea and a seasonal wagashi, the Kyoto sweet made for the month you visit. Around the house you will find works by Kyoto artists: Nishijin textile art and calligraphy. Take your time with them, much as you would in a quiet gallery. Each piece is one of a kind, and our artists can also create a work just for you, in your choice of words, colors or size, shipped to your home. There is nothing to buy unless you wish. You are also welcome to try a little calligraphy. At around 10:00, we take you back to your hotel. To have us plan the rest of your day in Kyoto, just let us know in advance; this is arranged separately, at an additional cost.

    1 hour • Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by The SEN Kyoto

Tags

Half-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Religious Tours
Seasonal
Car Tours
Luxury Car Tours

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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