[Japan Wellness] Zen Meditation and Temple Tour in Matsushima

Unlock the secrets of Zen and learn about the tranquil beauty of Matsushima on this enriching wellness tour. Set out on a journey of personal discovery, guided by expert instructors who’ll lead you through a serene meditation session and mindful exploration of a historic temple. Savor the flavors of traditional Buddhist cuisine and sample the time-honored art of matcha tea preparation. With limited group sizes, this tour promises an intimate cultural experience that’ll leave you feeling rejuvenated and inspired.

Key Points

1. Immersive Zen meditation experience at the historic Entsu-in Temple in Matsushima, including guided instruction and mindfulness walk.
2. Exploration of the temple’s architectural wonders and tranquil gardens for cultural enrichment.
3. Enjoyment of a traditional Shojin Ryori vegetarian lunch in the serene temple setting.
4. Opportunity to conclude the tour with matcha and sweets at a local tea house.
5. Comprehensive tour package with transportation, hotel pickup, and drop-off, catering to a maximum of 10 travelers.

Overview and Experience

The tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy the peaceful practice of Zen meditation and explore the historical Entsu-in Temple in the picturesque town of Matsushima.

Participants will learn the basics of Zen meditation from an experienced guide and then visit the temple to discover its architectural wonders and tranquil gardens.

The highlight of the tour is a traditional Shojin Ryori lunch, a Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, served in a beautifully preserved building on the temple grounds.

The tour concludes with a visit to a local tea house for matcha and sweets, providing a well-rounded cultural experience.

Tour Details

With 4 glowing reviews and a 5.0 rating on Viator and Tripadvisor, this tour accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers.

You’ll receive confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability. All transportation fees are included, and hotel pickup and drop-off are provided.

The tour begins at 9:00 am at the Stained Glass Paean for the Trees at JR Sendai Station, ending back at the same location.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation. Guests should wear loose-fitting clothes for meditation and avoid short skirts.

Allow extra time for potential delays.

Transportation and Meeting Point

All transportation fees are included for this tour, and the provider offers hotel pickup and drop-off.

The meeting point is at the Stained Glass Paean for the Trees at JR Sendai Station. The tour begins at 9:00 am and ends back at the same location.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation. Travelers should allow extra time for potential delays due to traffic or unforeseen circumstances.

Zen Meditation at Matsushima

After arriving at the meeting point, participants begin their Zen meditation experience at Entsu-in Temple. Under the guidance of a skilled instructor, they learn the fundamentals of Zen meditation. Sitting in serenity, they focus on their breath, allowing thoughts to come and go. The tranquil environment of the temple encourages deep introspection.

Meditation Experience	Duration	Highlights
Zen Meditation	30 minutes	Guided instruction, peaceful temple setting
Mindfulness Walk	15 minutes	Slow, contemplative stroll through temple grounds
Sharing Circle	20 minutes	Discuss insights and reflections with group

This immersive Zen meditation session sets the stage for the rest of the temple tour.

Shojin Ryori Lunch at Entsu-in Temple

Participants then head to the traditional Entsu-in Temple, where they savor a delectable Shojin Ryori lunch.

Shojin Ryori is a Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, emphasizing the natural flavors of fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Diners enjoy their meal in a serene, historic setting, savoring each course mindfully.

The lunch features an array of small, artfully-presented dishes, from simmered vegetables to tofu delicacies.

Diners appreciate the harmony of flavors and the attention to detail that characterizes this traditional cuisine.

This dining experience provides a glimpse into the refined, spiritual aspects of Japanese culture, complementing the earlier meditation practice.

Matcha Tea and Traditional Sweets at Kanrantei Tea House

Next, the tour group makes their way to the charming Kanrantei Tea House. Here, they’re treated to a traditional matcha tea ceremony and sampling of Japanese sweets.

The experience includes:

• Watching a skilled tea master prepare the matcha using precise movements
• Sipping the frothy, vibrant green tea while savoring delicate wagashi confections
• Learning about the cultural significance and centuries-old traditions of the Japanese tea ceremony

This tranquil interlude provides a peaceful respite before the group continues their exploration of Matsushima’s spiritual landmarks.

Additional Information

The tour is not wheelchair accessible, though it is located near public transportation. Visitors are advised to wear loose-fitting clothes for the Zen meditation session, as short skirts are not recommended. Plus, they should allow extra time for potential delays due to traffic or unforeseen circumstances.

Clothing Recommendation	Accessibility	Public Transportation
Loose-fitting clothes	Not wheelchair accessible	Near public transportation
Short skirts not advised

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The tour is priced at $180.00 per person. This cost covers all admission fees and activity fees.

However, the tour has a strict no-refund policy – there are no refunds for cancellations.

Here are a few key things to note about the pricing and cancellation policy:

• Non-refundable, no exceptions.
• All fees are included in the $180.00 per person price.
• Allow extra time, as delays may occur due to traffic or unforeseen circumstances.

Given the non-refundable nature of the tour, it’s important for participants to ensure their schedule is clear before booking.

Since You Asked

What Are the Recommended Travel Documents for This Tour?

For this tour, travelers will need a valid passport. No special visas or travel documents are required. It’s recommended to check any updated travel requirements prior to the tour date.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Dietary Restrictions?

Yes, the tour can accommodate dietary restrictions. Travelers with specific dietary needs should notify the tour company in advance, and the staff will work to provide appropriate meals during the Shojin Ryori lunch.

Is Photography Permitted During the Meditation Session?

Photography isn’t allowed during the meditation session, as it could disturb the tranquil atmosphere. However, guests can take photos at other parts of the tour, such as the temple grounds and tea house.

How Long Is the Walking Distance During the Tour?

The walking distance during the tour is not explicitly specified. However, the meeting point is at Sendai Station, and the tour includes visits to Entsu-in Temple and Kanrantei Tea House, suggesting a moderate amount of walking between sites.

Do Participants Receive Any Souvenirs or Gifts From the Tour?

Participants don’t receive any souvenirs or gifts during the tour. The focus is on the immersive Zen experience and exploring the Buddhist temples and tea house. All admission fees and activities are included in the tour price.

The Sum Up

The Japan Wellness Zen Meditation and Temple Tour in Matsushima offers a unique opportunity to take in the tranquility of Zen meditation and the rich cultural heritage of Japan. This enriching experience includes a guided meditation session, a mindful garden walk, a traditional vegetarian lunch, and matcha tea with sweets, providing deep insights into the essence of Japanese spirituality and cuisine.