A zazen session guided by a monk at a private Kyoto temple, with an explanation of breathing and posture; from around 3.500 ¥.
Zen meditation, or zazen, is one of the most representative practices of Japanese spirituality, and experiencing it at a Kyoto temple guided by a monk is a serene and revealing experience. In this activity you access a temple that is not normally open to the general public, where a monk explains the fundamentals of zazen (posture, breathing and concentration) before practising several rounds of seated meditation in silence. Many sessions also include a brief talk on Zen philosophy and a tour of the temple garden. The experience starts at around 3.500 ¥ and usually lasts between an hour and an hour and a half, with explanations in English and a guide designed for beginners. It is advisable to book in advance and arrive on time; comfortable clothing that allows you to sit on the floor is recommended. It is an ideal plan to disconnect from the tourist pace and understand first-hand the Zen culture that has shaped the gardens, the temples and the aesthetics of Kyoto.
