Experience Zazen Meditation at the Heart of Kosho-ji Temple

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto is the Kosho-ji Temple, a sanctuary of tranquility and spiritual enrichment. As you step through its gates, the everyday hustle of the world seems to fade, replaced by an ambiance of calm and serenity. This is where our journey begins. During our time together, we’ll immerse ourselves in the age-old practice of Zazen meditation, guided by a seasoned Buddhist teacher. Their wisdom, accumulated through years of practice, will open your eyes to the deeper aspects of life and the profound peace that meditation can bring.

But that's not all. As we walk through the temple, every stone and artifact tells a story, painting a vivid picture of the temple's rich heritage. The beauty of Kosho-ji is not just in its history but in the living traditions it upholds. It's more than just a tour; it's an experience, a transformative dive into a world of mindfulness.

So, if you're looking to find a moment of peace or seeking a deeper understanding of Buddhism, this is the place for you. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity. Book your spot now and embark on a journey that promises not only knowledge but inner peace.

What's in Store for You?

• A Peaceful Moment at Kosho-ji: Find yourself in the calm embrace of Kyoto's Kosho-ji Temple. With a local Buddhist teacher by your side, experience the grounding energy of Zazen meditation.

• Stories in Every Corner: As you wander the temple's grounds, you'll discover tales from ages past. It’s not just about the beauty of the place but also the deep-rooted history and culture it preserves.

• Learning from the Best: Spend time with a Buddhist mentor who'll share insights and stories that shed light on Buddhism's intricate teachings.

• More Than Just Words: Listen closely. It's not just a sermon; it's a heart-to-heart conversation filled with wisdom and learning.

• A Little Secret: Ever heard that an hour of Zazen meditation might give you the peace and clarity that usually takes ten years to find? Come see for yourself.

What's Included?

• Local Insight: Navigate with a seasoned local guide who knows all the best stories and secrets.

• A Moment of Zen: Immerse yourself in a truly authentic Zazen meditation session.

What's Not?

• Getting There: We won't be able to provide hotel transfers, so plan your commute accordingly.

Before You Set Off:

• Wear long pants suitable for meditation, and when picking your outfit, think of comfort. We'd prefer you steer clear of mini skirts, non-elastic pants, and anything too tight.

• If you're bringing the little ones, remember that Zazen is best suited for those 12 and up. But younger kids can sit beside their guardians without any extra charge.

• We'll be here waiting for you daily from 10 am to 4 pm.

• Plans change, and that's okay. If you need to cancel, just give us a heads-up 48 hours before the experience starts, and you'll get a full refund.

Planning Your Visit to Kosho-ji Temple

• After booking, keep an eye on your email for the voucher. Once you receive it, keep it handy on your mobile for easy access.

• Don't forget to bring a valid photo ID; you'll need to display it alongside your mobile voucher at the attraction.

• Timing is everything. Be at the attraction 15 minutes before your scheduled visit to ensure a seamless experience.

• For ticket validation, make your way to Kosho-ji Temple, located at Yamada-27-1 Uji, Kyoto 611-0021, Japan.

• If you're taking the bus, your best bet is the Keihan Uji Eki stop. From there, it's a swift 10-minute walk. Look for buses on the Uji Okubo Yodo Line 21.

• For train enthusiasts, Uji Station is your closest spot. A quick 11-minute walk will get you to the temple. Just hop on a train running on the Uji Line.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What exactly is Zazen meditation?

Ans: Zazen meditation is a fundamental seated meditation practice rooted in Zen Buddhism. The primary focus is on mindfulness, observing one's thoughts and sensations without being judgmental, and cultivating a deeper sense of inner peace.

Q: How long is the tour at Kosho-ji Temple?

Ans: The entire experience, which includes a guided tour of the temple grounds and the Zazen meditation session, lasts approximately 1 hour, offering participants a comprehensive view of both the temple's history and the meditation practice.

Q: Do I need any prior meditation experience to participate in the tour?

Ans: Absolutely not! The tour is designed to accommodate both beginners and those familiar with meditation. The local Buddhist teacher will provide step-by-step guidance, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable during the session.

Q: What attire is appropriate for this tour?

Ans: It's essential to dress both respectfully and comfortably when visiting the temple. We recommend wearing long pants for the meditation and steering clear of tight-fitting attire, mini skirts, and rigid pants. The goal is to ensure you're at ease during the meditation session.

Q: Is the tour kid-friendly?

Ans: While children below 12 are not permitted to participate in the Zazen meditation due to its introspective nature, they are more than welcome to accompany their guardians and can sit beside them without incurring an additional fee.

Q: What amenities are available at Kosho-ji Temple?

Ans: While the Kosho-ji Temple is steeped in tradition and provides basic amenities for visitors, it's always a good idea to come prepared with essentials like bottled water, snacks, or any personal items you might need during your visit.

Q: Am I allowed to take photographs during the tour?

Ans: Photography is permitted in certain areas of the temple, allowing you to capture the beauty of the surroundings. However, to maintain the sanctity of the place and the meditation experience, please refrain from taking photos during meditation or in designated no-photo zones.

Q: What's the best way to get to Kosho-ji Temple?

Ans: You have a couple of convenient options. By bus, you can alight at the Keihan Uji Eki stop, followed by a short 10-minute walk. If you prefer the train, Uji Station is the closest, and it's an easy 11-minute walk from there to the temple.

Related Read: Kamakura Buddhism: Exploring the Religious Transformation of Medieval Japan