Wellness in Saitama: Takedera Blowing Zen Meditation & Hot Spring

5.0
(2 reviews)

6 hours (approximately)
Offered in: Japanese and 1 more

Saitama Prefecture, adjacent to Tokyo, offers a diverse options of experiences that cater to wellness and mindfulness enthusiasts and it's only an hour away from Tokyo.

This unique offering takes you to Takedera in Hanno City, a distinctive temple where the harmonious blend of Shintoism and Buddhism converges with a vast bamboo forest. While immersing yourself in the tranquility of this spiritual sanctuary, meet your instructor, Mr. Aoyama, for a truly unique experience – learning the art of "suizen," or blowing Zen meditation. This practice is so rare that even many Japanese locals have never encountered it.

Later, your wellness journey continues to the Kirari Spa Villa by Miyazawa Lake. As one of Saitama's most popular spas, this villa boasts an extensive variety of pools. Spend your afternoon at the spa villa before returning to the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.

NOTE: Please note that tattoos are strictly prohibited at this particular spa facility.

What's Included

English-speaking guide (depart after drop-off at Kirari Spa Villa)
Blowing zen "suizen" experiences
Takedera tour and introduction
Round-trip transfer to/from Takedera
One-way transfer from Kirari Spa Villa to Hanno Station
Admission to Kirari Spa Villa
(Option) Lunch (vegetarian) at Takedera

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Meet up with your guide and the driver or the Priest from Takedera "Bamboo Temple" outside of the South Exit of Hanno Station at 10:00 AM.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What to expect

Takedera Temple, the "Bamboo Temple" in Japanese, stands out as a hidden gem in Eastern Japan, preserving the harmonious blend of Shintoism and Buddhism. After arriving at the temple, the priest will give you a tour while explaining the rich history of this spiritual sanctuary. Fully embrace yourself in its tranquility and natural beauty of the bamboo forest.

Starting at 11:15 AM, meet your instructor, Mr. Aoyama, to explore the blowing Zen meditation "suizen". Mr. Aoyama, a renowned musician with a broad background in mindfulness practices such as yoga and meditation, will introduce you to the shakuhachi, the traditional Japanese bamboo flute. After learning the basic techniques of blowing Zen, take a stroll at the bamboo forest, where will further calm your mind and control your breathe.

As an optional add-on, savor a vegetarian lunch at Takedera around 12:30 PM, featuring seasonal vegetables and herbs. The lunch is thoughtfully designed with a bamboo theme for your enjoyment.

After Takedera, make a stop at Kirari Spa Villa (approx. 15 mins by car). Spend a relaxing afternoon at the onsen before heading back to the hassle and bustle of Tokyo.

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Supplied by Beauty of Japan

Tags

Onsens
Walking Tours
Spas
Thermal Spas & Hot Springs
Small Group
Top Product
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

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

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Rating

5.0 Based on 2 2 reviews
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