EVENTS & NEWS

Schedule for March, April, May and June 2025

March 8, 2025

Experience Zen Like Never Before: Kyoto’s Exclusive Kissako Zen and Tea Experience in English

Kissako Zen and Tea Experience in English

Step into a world of unparalleled tranquility and refinement with our Zen Meditation Program, crafted for discerning travelers seeking an exclusive journey into mindfulness. Set within the Kyoto’s most prestigious temple and private garden, this luxurious experience blends centuries-old Zen traditions with modern elegance.

Guided by the renowned Zen priest and thinker, Rev. Takafumi Zenryu Kawakami,  you will explore the art of mindfulness amidst breathtaking surroundings steeped in history. From exclusive sessions tailored to your personal growth to curated moments of introspection, every detail is designed to elevate your sense of peace and clarity.

Indulge in the seamless harmony of spirituality and sophistication, complemented by Kyoto’s renowned hospitality. This is more than a Zen experience—it’s a transformative voyage into the essence of Zen, reserved for those who demand the very best.

Unwind, rejuvenate, and immerse yourself in the timeless luxury of Kyoto. Your path to inner serenity awaits.

  • Cold infused tea preparation using utensils from Asahiyaki, Kaikado, and Kannami Tsuji.
  • 20 minutes of zazen meditation
  • Five-sense tea drinking
  • 20 minutes of nanso meditation (a technique used by the Priest Hakuin Ekaku that incorporates body scanning and self-compassion).
  • Dharma talk
  • Guided tour of garden and prayer hall.

Maximun capacity: 10 people

Private Kissako experiences are also available.  Please inquire.

120 minutes

Dress code:

  • Socks are required.
  • Short skirts are not recommended.

Cancellation Policy

  • You will be charged 50% of the total fee as your cancellation fee if you fail to notify us about the change or cancellation of your reservation at least 10 days in advance from your reserved date.
  • You will be charged 100% of the total fee as your cancellation fee if you fail to notify us about the change or cancellation of your reservation at least a week in advance from your reserved date.

March 2025

April 2025

May 2025

June 2025

NOTE:

If you are U.S. residents, please check the following. So, you will be able to register for these experiences through Peatix. 

Starting July 26, 2024, if you set your country of residence to the United States in your account settings, you will see the US-specific Peatix page.

Users residing in the United States cannot view previously ordered tickets or event pages for events held in other countries.

Additionally, they cannot view or order tickets for newly listed events held in other countries.

Thus, the Peatix links mentioned here may not work if you are in the U.S.

To view or order tickets for events in other countries, users residing in the United States must go to the U.S.- specific Peatix page (https://peatix.com) first. Then please sign in to the Peatix U.S. page and change your country of residence in your  account settings to a country other than the United States.

 Please check the link below to learn how to change your country of residence in your Peatix account. 

https://help-attendee.peatix.com/en/support/solutions/articles/44002540319–country-settings

Overnight Retreats

No retreat will be offered in March and April 2025 due to the restoration works and the temple schedule.  The overnight retreats will be held in May and June. For more details, please visit the following link.

Schedule for Overnight Retreats in English in Summer 2025

Exclusive Japanese Calligraphy Immersion in English- Finding Serenity Through Shodo-

Embark on an exclusive journey into the heart of Japanese Zen culture with a personalized Shodo Atelier experience within the serene grounds of our historic temple. More than a mere calligraphy class, this is an immersion into the art of mindful brushstrokes, where each stroke becomes a meditation, a path to inner tranquility.

Under the guidance of a master calligrapher, you will delve into the profound beauty of Shodo, using exquisite Shodo untensiles and traditional Sumi ink. Discover the intricate dance between brush, ink, and paper as you learn to create your own works of art, capturing the essence of your chosen characters.

This bespoke experience is tailored to your individual preferences, offering the opportunity to explore specific calligraphy styles and create personalized masterpieces. We will provide high end japanese tea, and sweets during your experience. To ensure you have a lasting memory of your experience, we can provide professional photography services.

Take home your completed calligraphy, a tangible reminder of your journey into the art of Zen mindfulness.

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