Zen Experience at a Hidden Temple in Kyoto

Zen Experience at a Private Temple

This experience, recommended by WAUG editors, offers a special opportunity to practice Zazen meditation with Nishida Eitetsu, the 16th chief priest of Jishoin, a Zen temple. After Zazen, Eitetsu will guide you on how to enjoy matcha (powdered green tea) served with traditional confectionery. In addition, a photographer will capture the moments of your experience and send you the photo data as a souvenir.

About the Venue:
Founded in 1599, Jishoin Temple is one of the 46 sub-temples within Myoshinji, the largest Zen temple in Japan, and has a history of approximately 420 years.

About the Garden:
The temple's beautiful garden, a work by the famous 16th-century painter Eitoku Kano, has remained unchanged since its creation. The garden boasts different beauties each season: cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn foliage in fall, and snow in winter!

About the Host:
Nishida Eitetsu -
Nishida Eitetsu is the 16th chief priest and worked as a national civil servant for 10 years before becoming a monk. Despite a harsh training period of three and a half years, he is known for his cheerful personality and love for animals.

About Zen and Rinzai Buddhism:
Zen, a branch of Mahayana Buddhism, emphasizes Zazen (meditation) and direct experience over religious texts. Introduced to Japan in the 12th century, Rinzai Zen is famous for emphasizing sudden enlightenment (Satori) through intense practice.