The zazen sessions in working temples: meditation taught by monks, hidden-temple sittings with garden tours and lunches that follow the monastery’s own kitchen rules. Twenty minutes of stillness in a 400-year-old hall recalibrates the whole trip.
Discover Kyoto’s Zen temples and gardens with a guided meditation, insights from monks, and a traditional vegetarian lunch. A peaceful, authentic experience.
Most Popular“We had a truly enlightening experience during our visit to a temple with a beautiful meditation space. Being guided by a monk through meditation was incredibly calming and insightful. It was a peaceful moment that allowed us to disconnect Read more”
Experience authentic Zen meditation, matcha tea, and tranquil gardens in a hidden Kyoto temple. A peaceful cultural journey for seekers of calm and tradition.
“It was the most incredible experience we had during that trip in Japan. unforgettable !”
Experience authentic Zen meditation in Kyoto with a private monk-guided session, learn about Zazen, and enjoy a peaceful tea ceremony in a secluded temple.
“If you’re considering this tour - stop that and book it asap. From where I come from this price is on a higher end, and I was having doubts, especially since my husband has 6th sense for BS but this really impressed both of us…”
Discover Kyoto's Zen gardens on a private guided tour led by an expert landscape designer. Explore historic temples and gain insights into Japanese spirituality and aesthetics.
“Focused on traditions behind Japanese gardens; also basics about Shinto and Buddhist traditions and practices. Andrew was excellent, highly knowledgeable with a Master’s in landscape architecture and a personal interest in the philosophy and spiritual elements behind them”
Discover Kyoto’s highlights on a 4.5-hour bike tour, visiting UNESCO Zen temples, enjoying a traditional lunch, and cycling along scenic rivers.
“Great way to get out of Kyoto and see sites! Biking is a favorite activity in any town/city... this was no exception! Loved the ride along the river, all the things we saw as we moved around town and out to the edges to see…”
Discover Kyoto's traditional art with a hands-on Yuzen dyeing experience. Create your own silk fabric souvenir in an intimate, authentic workshop setting.
“Overall we really enjoyed the class and got to take home beautiful dyed Japanese artwork that we painted ourselves. The artist was very patient and kind, and there was a college student translator. The class was just my fiancée and I, so it felt more…”
Experience Kyoto’s iconic bamboo groves, meet wild macaques at Iwatayama, and explore Zen gardens on this guided tour designed for authentic Japanese beauty.
“We had a private tour with our tour guide Hiro. He was really friendly and knew a lot of Interesting facts about the shrine. we decided not to go the mountain top for the monkeys, because we didn't bring our good walking shoes, so instead…”
Explore Kyoto’s hidden Zen gardens, iconic torii gates, and spiritual sites on a 4-hour guided walking tour, perfect for authentic cultural experiences.
“I recently took a guided tour to two of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks—Fushimi Inari Shrine and Fuhuji Temple—and it was a truly remarkable experience. The tour was well-paced, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the stunning sites without fRead more”
Discover Kyoto’s highlights on a 3.5-hour guided e-bike tour visiting Fushimi Inari, Gion, Nanzen-ji, and Kamo River with expert guides and stunning sights.
“We had a fabulous time with Sato! She was so sweet and kind and gave us fantastic food recommendations for after our tour! The ride was well thought out to avoid as much pedestrian traffic as possible and still gave us great views and explanations.…”
Experience authentic Zen meditation in a Kyoto café with a trained host, mantra chanting, and quiet zazen—perfect for beginners seeking tranquility.
“solo female traveller here - wanting something different/new? do this!! it’s the perfect start to your morning. Uyesugi is so calm, informative and knowledgeable. He will guide you through zen meditation and then make you an amazing singleRead more”
Experience authentic Zen meditation in Kyoto’s secret temple with guided instruction, a tranquil moss garden, and a calming tea ceremony—an immersive cultural journey.
“The Zen meditation experience while watching the candles was truly special. The monk and our guide Soma were very friendly, and we learned a lot. It was one of the best experiences we've had in Japan. I highly recommend this to anyone visiting Kyoto.”
Experience an authentic, private Zen meditation session in Kyoto led by a Buddhist priest, with personalized guidance, traditional settings, and tea.
“Brian is great teacher and storyteller. He and my 18 year old son made a great connection discussing many religions. The meditation lesson was very clear and helpful.”
Experience authentic Zen meditation by a peaceful riverside in Kyoto, combined with a calming matcha tasting. Perfect for mindful travelers seeking tranquility.
Discover Kyoto's tranquil night visit to Keishunin Temple, featuring Zen meditation, illuminated gardens, and traditional tea in an authentic setting.
“One of the best activities that I did on this trip , worth it every penny!”
Experience a traditional **Japanese tea ceremony** in Kyoto with this hands-on matcha whisking session at a peaceful temple, guided by friendly, knowledgeable hosts.
“Sakura gave us a very, very nice experience and a perfect tea ceremony. She answered all our questions and was well informed. We had a pleasant time and enjoyed it very much. :)”
Ten thousand shrine gates, tea poured properly and geisha lanes at dusk.