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Offered languages
- English
Engage in a serene half-day experience that combines the ancient practices of Zen meditation and calligraphy at a tranquil local temple. Under the guidance of a monk, learn the art of zazen—sitting and breathing to cultivate mindfulness—while enjoying a calming session enhanced by the option of traditional keisaku. Reflect on your practice over a cup of matcha and Japanese sweets, fostering a relaxed atmosphere. Transition to a calligraphy workshop where you will master brush techniques and create a personalized artwork on shikishi board. Capture the moment with photos of your creation, making this a memorable keepsake from your Zen journey.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
We’ll meet in front of the temple located on the corner of the intersection. The person holding a smartphone displaying “AlvaJapan” is our staff. Please note that there are other temples nearby, so be careful not to mistake the location.
Itinerary
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1
Step into a quiet local temple to experience authentic zazen as practiced for centuries. Your monk instructor explains how to sit and breathe, then guides a focused session (with short practice first). On request only, the traditional keisaku (encouragement stick) may be offered to help restore attention. You’ll also learn how shakyo (sutra copying) relates to mindfulness and everyday Zen. You can enjoy a quiet break with matcha prepared by the monk, served with traditional Japanese sweets. It’s not formal or rigid—just simple etiquette and a relaxed atmosphere. As your mind and body settle through Zen practice, the warmth of the matcha will sink in gently, bringing a sense of pure comfort and happiness. After reflection and Q&A—with bilingual support—we transfer to a nearby studio for a hands-on calligraphy workshop.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
In the calligraphy class, start with brush grip, ink control, and basic strokes, then choose a character (e.g., your name in kanji or a meaningful word) and create a final piece on shikishi board. Take photos of your work and bring it home as a personal keepsake. This compact half-day blends stillness and creativity—ideal for first-timers and meditators alike.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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