Step into the tranquil realm of Zen as you learn about the profound morning ritual at Myochuji Temple in Kyoto. Awaken your senses with the nourishing aromas of the traditional Zen porridge, prepared with time-honored wisdom. Then, allow your mind to still through a guided meditation, unlocking insights that can transform your daily life. As the vice-abbot shares the ancient teachings, you’ll discover the profound power of this centuries-old practice. What secrets of inner peace and balance await you within these hallowed halls?
Key Points
- Immersive 2-hour Zen experience featuring a nourishing Zen porridge breakfast, guided meditation, and insights on applying Zen principles to daily life.
- 30-minute Zen porridge preparation ritual and 45-minute guided meditation session led by the vice-abbot to calm the mind and discover the benefits of Zen.
- 45-minute Dharma talk on the transformative power of Zen, cultivating inner peace, and appreciating the rich spiritual tradition.
- Experience held at Myochuji Temple’s serene grounds, allowing visitors to connect with the centuries-old Zen tradition and observe the interplay of light and shadow.
- Flexible cancellation policy and interpretation services available in multiple languages to ensure a seamless and accessible Zen-infused experience.
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Overview
This 2-hour experience invites visitors to enjoy the world of Zen, starting with a nourishing morning porridge and culminating in a calming meditation session.
For just over $105 per person, guests can enjoy a traditional Zen breakfast and learn about the philosophy from the vice-abbot of Myochuji Temple.
After the meal, they’ll partake in a guided meditation to quiet the mind and discover the benefits of this ancient practice.
Throughout the morning, you will also receive a Dharma talk, gaining insights on how to apply Zen principles to their daily lives.
This immersive experience offers a chance to step away from the noise of the modern world and connect with the timeless wisdom of Zen Buddhism.
Zen Porridge and Meditation
Early each morning, the vice-abbot of Myochuji Temple warmly welcomes guests to enjoy a nourishing Zen porridge, a time-honored tradition that nourishes both body and spirit. Preparing this simple yet profound meal is a ritual, with each ingredient and step infused with Zen wisdom. As guests savor the porridge, the vice-abbot shares insights on how Zen principles can be applied to daily life. After the meal, the group transitions into a guided meditation session, where they learn techniques to calm the mind and cultivate inner peace. The experience culminates with a Dharma talk, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation for the transformative power of Zen.
| Activity | Description | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Zen Porridge | Enjoy a nourishing morning porridge prepared with care and Zen wisdom | 30 mins |
| Zen Meditation | Learn and practice guided meditation techniques to calm the mind | 45 mins |
| Dharma Talk | Engage in a discussion on applying Zen teachings to daily life | 45 mins |
Highlights
From the profound insights shared during the Zen porridge and meditation experience, participants gain a deeper appreciation for the transformative power of Zen.
They’ll enjoy the world of Zen, savoring the nourishing porridge and learning how to apply Zen teachings to their daily lives through the vice-abbot’s insightful Dharma talk.
Participants will discover the art of calming the mind through Zen meditation, emerging with a renewed sense of inner peace and clarity.
This unique experience offers a glimpse into the rich spiritual tradition of Zen, empowering attendees to integrate its principles into their own lives and cultivate a more mindful, centered approach to living.
Inclusions
The experience includes a nourishing morning porridge, a guided Zen meditation session, and an insightful Dharma talk by the vice-abbot, providing participants a holistic introduction to the principles and practices of Zen Buddhism.
The fragrant porridge, made with traditional ingredients, nourishes both body and soul, while the meditation session, led by an experienced practitioner, allows visitors to calm their minds and connect with the present moment.
The Dharma talk then offers practical guidance on applying Zen teachings to everyday life, empowering participants to incorporate these timeless wisdom into their daily routines.
With the option of interpretation services available in multiple languages, this immersive experience caters to a diverse audience, making Zen accessible to all.
Meeting Point
Myochuji Temple’s serene grounds welcome participants to the Zen morning porridge and meditation experience, providing a tranquil setting to begin the day’s journey of self-discovery.
The temple’s ornate architecture and well-manicured gardens set the stage for a morning of mindfulness and inner reflection.
Guests are invited to:
- Breathe in the crisp morning air, allowing it to cleanse and rejuvenate the senses.
- Observe the play of light and shadow, a reminder of the impermanence of all things.
- Absorb the peaceful energy that permeates the temple, fostering a sense of presence and calm.
- Connect with the centuries-old tradition of Zen, tapping into the wisdom of the ages.
With the meeting point established, participants can embark on their Zen-infused morning, primed to deepen their understanding of this ancient practice.
Cancellation Policy
Guests can easily cancel their Zen morning porridge and meditation experience up to three days prior without incurring any fees, allowing them the flexibility to adjust their plans as needed. This generous cancellation policy reflects the temple’s understanding that life can be unpredictable. By providing this option, the organizers ensure that guests can focus on their spiritual journey without the worry of losing their investment.
| Cancellation Timeline | Fees |
|---|---|
| 3+ days in advance | No fees |
| 1-2 days in advance | 50% of total |
| Day of | 100% of total |
The no-fee cancellation up to three days prior grants guests peace of mind, enabling them to immerse themselves fully in the Zen experience without reservation.
Suitable Attendees
Although the Zen morning porridge and meditation experience at Myochuji Temple caters to a wide range of participants, it’s particularly well-suited for those seeking a deeper connection with the principles of Zen Buddhism.
This transformative journey invites visitors to open their minds and embrace the tranquility of the moment.
Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or a curious newcomer, the experience offers a chance to:
- Cultivate inner peace and mindfulness
- Gain insights into the art of living in the present
- Deepen your understanding of the interconnectedness of all things
- Discover how to apply Zen teachings to everyday life
Available Interpretation Services
For the convenience of visitors from diverse backgrounds, the Zen morning porridge and meditation experience at Myochuji Temple offers interpretation services in a variety of languages, including English, Korean, Chinese, Polish, Hebrew, German, Spanish, French, Filipino, and Thai.
This ensures that guests from all over the world can fully engage with and understand the teachings and practices of Zen Buddhism.
Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or a curious newcomer, the availability of these interpretation services allows you to learn about the tranquil atmosphere and gain valuable insights into the application of Zen principles in everyday life.
This truly inclusive offering enhances the overall experience, making it accessible to a global audience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Traditional Japanese Attire Required for the Experience?
No, traditional Japanese attire is not required for this experience. Participants can wear comfortable, casual clothing that allows them to fully engage in the meditative activities without restrictions.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Meditation Cushion?
No, you don’t need to bring your own meditation cushion. The experience provides all the necessary equipment, including cushions, for the Zen meditation session. You’ll be able to fully learn about the tranquil atmosphere without worrying about extra gear.
Can I Participate if I Have a Physical Disability?
Yes, guests with physical disabilities are welcome to participate. Accommodations can be made to ensure a comfortable and inclusive experience, allowing everyone to fully enjoy the Zen meditation and porridge ritual.
Are Vegetarian/Vegan Options Available for the Porridge?
Yes, the porridge can accommodate vegetarian and vegan diets. The hosts are happy to prepare a plant-based version to ensure all participants can fully enjoy the Zen morning ritual and meditation experience.
Can I Take Photos During the Meditation Session?
As a general guideline, it’s best to avoid taking photos during meditation sessions. The practice requires participants to fully immerse themselves, so capturing images can be disruptive. However, you may be able to take photos before or after the session.
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Recap
Immerse in the timeless serenity of Zen at Myochuji Temple. Begin the day nourished by a ritual porridge, then quiet the mind through guided meditation.
Gain wisdom from the vice-abbot’s insights, applying Zen’s transformative teachings to daily life.
This thoughtfully curated experience invites visitors to discover the power of mindfulness in Kyoto’s ancient spiritual sanctuary.
