Private Zen Shakyo Experience in Kochi at Chikurin-ji Temple

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

Experience a peaceful side of Kochi through a private Zen Shakyo experience in nature.
・Enjoy an exclusive private tour with flexible pacing and personalized guidance
・Take part in a traditional Shakyo (sutra copying) experience at a historic Buddhist temple
・Learn about Zen philosophy and Japanese spiritual culture in a calm, authentic setting
・Visit Godaisan area, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views over Kochi
・Optional free time at Makino Botanical Garden, with cafés and restaurants available for lunch
・Travel like a local using public transportation, with full guidance from your local host
・Ideal for travelers seeking mindfulness, culture, and a slower, deeper experience in Japan
・Perfect for cruise passengers & first-time visitors – hotel and port pickup available on request
・Taste local flavors with a complimentary citrus juice and Biscuits

What's Included

English-speaking guide (Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, or Taiwanese available upon request)
Local snack & drink (Gokkun citrus juice & Mille Biscuits)
Admission fee to Makino Botanical Garden
Walking tour in Kochi nature
Meeting at JR Kochi Station South Exit (free of charge)
Admission fee to Chikurin-ji Temple for Shakyo experience
Lunch (at Makino Botanical Garden is at your own expense)
Public bus fees are not included. Participants purchase their own Bus tickets directly.Credit cards are accepted.Your guide will assist with directions and how to use the bus.
Personal expenses and souvenirs

Meeting and pickup

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

Meeting Point Information
Meet in front of the Statues of the Three Tosa Samurai (Sakamoto Ryoma, Takechi Hanpeita, and Nakaoka Shintaro) at JR Kochi Station South Exit.
The statues are located just outside the South Exit of JR Kochi Station.
In case of rain, please meet inside JR Kochi Station South Exit.

If you arrive by cruise ship, we can arrange pick-up at Kochi Port (additional taxi fee may apply).
Hotel pick-up is available upon request (within central Kochi city only; additional fee may apply).
Look for your guide holding a sign that says “Kochi Tours.”

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Meeting point

Meeting Point Information Meet in front of the Statues of the Three Tosa Samurai (Sakamoto Ryoma, Takechi Hanpeita, and Nakaoka Shintaro) at JR Kochi Station South Exit. In case of rain, please meet inside JR Kochi Station South Exit.

End point

End Point Information The tour ends at Harimayabashi Tourist Bus Terminal, a convenient transportation hub located near Harimayabashi Bridge in central Kochi City. From here, guests can easily access local buses, taxis, restaurants, and shopping areas.

Itinerary

Duration: 6 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Mt. Godaisan Observatory

    At Godaisan Observation Deck, guests can enjoy a peaceful panoramic view of Kochi City, the surrounding mountains, and the Pacific Ocean on clear days. This short stop allows travelers to take in the natural scenery, enjoy fresh air, and transition from the city into the calm, reflective atmosphere of Mount Godai before continuing the cultural experience.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 2

    At Chikurin-ji Temple, a historic Buddhist temple located on Mount Godai, guests will experience a quiet and contemplative atmosphere surrounded by nature. During the visit, participants take part in a traditional Shakyo (sutra copying) experience, carefully copying Buddhist scriptures with brush and ink. This private, guided experience allows guests to slow down, focus their mind, and engage with Japanese Buddhist culture in a respectful and meaningful way.

    2 hours • Admission ticket included
  • 3

    At Makino Botanical Garden, guests have time to explore the beautifully maintained gardens at their own pace. Surrounded by a wide variety of plants and seasonal flowers, this relaxed visit offers a quiet opportunity to enjoy nature and reflect after the earlier cultural experience. Guests who wish may also enjoy lunch or refreshments at one of the garden’s on-site restaurants during their free time.

    2 hours • Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Service animals allowed
  • 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 pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Supplied by Kochi Tours

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Tags

Nature and Wildlife Tours
Half-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Walking Tours
Ports of Call Tours
Nature Walks
Religious Tours
Shore Excursions
Additional fees
Port Pickup

Cancellation Policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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