Kyoto Zen Meditation & Garden Tour At A Zen Temple With Lunch

Kyoto’s Zen temples offer a unique opportunity to take in traditional Japanese culture. The Zen Meditation & Garden Tour provides a glimpse into this centuries-old practice, guiding visitors through serene temple grounds and leading them in a meditative session led by a resident monk. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, the experience also includes a traditional Buddhist vegan lunch, promising a well-rounded cultural encounter. Whether seeking a moment of tranquility or a deeper understanding of Zen Buddhism, this tour presents an enticing prospect for those eager to explore the spiritual heart of Kyoto.

Key Points

A 4.5-hour guided tour in Kyoto, Japan, that includes a 1-hour zazen meditation session and a traditional Buddhist vegan lunch.
Tour led by a local guide and takes place at a Zen temple, offering insights into Zen Buddhism and temple gardens.
Suitable for ages 12 and above, but not wheelchair accessible, with no guarantee for allergy-free or catered meals.
Detailed directions provided from Kyoto Station and Shijyo Keihan Station, with the meeting point at Tofukuji Station Exit 2.
Full refund if canceled up to 24 hours before the start time, but no refunds or changes within 24 hours.

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Tour Details

The Kyoto Zen Meditation & Garden Tour at a Zen Temple with Lunch offers a 4.5-hour experience.

The tour includes a guided tour, a 1-hour zazen meditation session, and a traditional Buddhist vegan lunch.

The tour takes place in Kyoto, Japan and is led by a local guide. It includes entrance fees to all venues visited and photos taken during the tour.

A maximum of 7 travelers can participate, ensuring an intimate experience. The tour starts and ends at Tofukuji Station.

Participants must arrive on time, as latecomers won’t be able to join or receive a refund.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for ages 12 and above. Dietary restrictions can’t be guaranteed.

What to Expect

Participants will receive confirmation of their booking at the time of purchase.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and is only suitable for those aged 12 and above.

Latecomers won’t be able to join the group or receive a refund, as the tour starts on time.

During the zazen meditation experience, private conversations aren’t allowed.

The tour doesn’t guarantee allergy-free meals or accommodate dietary restrictions.

Cancellations made up to 24 hours before the start time are eligible for a full refund, but changes less than 24 hours in advance aren’t accepted.

The tour provides an immersive Zen experience with a knowledgeable guide and delicious vegan lunch.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour meeting point is located outside Tofukuji Station EXIT 2, next to the Family Mart convenience store.

Detailed directions for reaching the meeting point are provided from both Kyoto Station and Shijyo Keihan Station. This ensures participants can easily find the starting location for the Kyoto Zen Meditation & Garden Tour.

The tour begins promptly at the scheduled time, so latecomers won’t be able to join or receive a refund. Participants should plan to arrive a few minutes early to meet the group and the local guide.

From the meeting point, the tour will take guests to the Zen temple for the meditation experience and guided garden tour.

Additional Information

Private conversations aren’t allowed during the zazen meditation experience. Plus, there’s no guarantee for allergy-free meals or accommodation of dietary restrictions. The tour is limited to a maximum of 7 travelers.

Feature	Details
Conversations	No private conversations allowed during the zazen meditation
Dietary Restrictions	No guarantee for allergy-free or catered dietary needs
Group Size	Maximum of 7 travelers on the tour
Cancellation Policy	Full refund if canceled up to 24 hours before start time
Changes	Changes less than 24 hours before start time not accepted

The tour has a strict cancellation policy, with full refunds available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. However, changes made less than 24 hours before the start time are not accepted.

Review Highlights

Reviews for this Kyoto Zen Meditation & Garden Tour praise the friendly and attentive guide and monk who lead participants through the experience.

Travelers mention the tour as relaxing, informative, and featuring a delicious vegan lunch.

Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guide who provided valuable insights into Zen Buddhism and the significance of the temple’s gardens.

The monk leading the meditation session received high praise for their patience and ability to create a calming atmosphere.

Many note the tour as a highlight of their Kyoto visit, offering a unique opportunity to enjoy traditional Japanese culture.

Cancellation Policy

According to the tour details, participants can obtain a full refund if they cancel up to 24 hours before the tour’s start time.

However, no refunds are provided for cancellations made less than 24 hours prior, and changes to bookings within 24 hours of the scheduled start aren’t accepted.

This strict cancellation policy reflects the tour organizer’s need to plan and prepare for each group in advance.

Travelers should be mindful of their schedules and plan accordingly to avoid any unexpected changes or last-minute cancellations that could result in forfeited payments.

Transportation

The tour provides clear directions for reaching the meeting point from both Kyoto Station and Shijyo Keihan Station.

From Kyoto Station, travelers can take the JR Nara Line train to Tofukuji Station and exit from Exit 2, where they’ll find the meeting point next to the Family Mart.

Alternatively, those coming from Shijyo Keihan Station can take the Keihan Main Line train to Tofukuji Station and exit from the same Exit 2.

The meeting point is conveniently located right outside the station, making it easy for participants to find and join the tour on time.

With these detailed transportation instructions, getting to the starting point of the Kyoto Zen Meditation & Garden Tour is straightforward and hassle-free.

Directions

To reach the meeting point for the Kyoto Zen Meditation & Garden Tour, travelers coming from Kyoto Station can take the JR Nara Line train to Tofukuji Station and exit from Exit 2, where they’ll find the meeting point conveniently located next to the Family Mart.

Those arriving from Shijyo Keihan Station can instead take the Keihan Main Line train to Tofukuji Station and exit through the same Exit 2, with the meeting point situated right outside the station.

The directions provided make it easy for participants to find the starting point:

Exit 2 at Tofukuji Station
Look for the Family Mart next to the meeting point
Follow signs or ask for directions if needed
Arrive at the designated meeting time to join the tour.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos During the Meditation Session?

No, taking photos is generally not allowed during meditation sessions. Participants are expected to respect the quiet, contemplative environment and focus on their practice without distractions or disruptions from cameras or phones.

Is the Guided Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?

The tour guide offers the guided experience in multiple languages, including English. Travelers can inquire about language options when booking to ensure the tour meets their needs.

Do We Get to Interact With the Temple Monks?

Yes, visitors can interact with the temple monks during this tour. The tour includes a 1-hour Zazen meditation experience led by an attentive monk, providing an opportunity for participants to engage with the monks and learn about their practices.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable, modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. This helps maintain the respectful atmosphere of the temple.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

While most tours allow guests to bring their own snacks and drinks, it’s best to check the specific tour policies. Some may have restrictions or provide all-inclusive meals and refreshments. Checking with the tour provider is recommended to ensure a smooth experience.

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