Authentic Zazen Experience Digital Detox with Temple Stay & Food

In recent years, the teachings of Zen meditation (zazen) have become increasingly well-known around the world. However, there are surprisingly few places where one can experience authentic zazen.

This activity offers a true digital detox and Zen experience—an immersive overnight stay at Shogakuji Temple, a Soto Zen temple nestled deep in the mountains about two hours from Tokyo. Over the course of two days and one night, participants can fully engage in traditional Soto Zen practices surrounded by rich natural beauty.

During your stay, you’ll follow the same practices as Zen monks: sitting meditation (zazen), sutra copying (shakyō), and enjoying tenzo ryōri, traditional vegetarian temple cuisine.

You will practice zazen twice—once in the evening and once in the morning. For beginners, the head monk will guide you through the basics of posture and breathing. Facing the natural world outside, you’ll practice Shikantaza—a Soto Zen method of meditation focused solely on sitting and clearing the mind. In this way, you aim to become one with the sounds of nature: birdsong, the river, the wind.