EVENTS & NEWS

Immersion Schedule for Feb, Mar, April & May 2026

February 8, 2026

Kissako Zen and Tea Experience

A quiet Zen encounter in English at a living Kyoto temple

At Shunkoin Temple, Kissako is an invitation to encounter Zen as it is genuinely practiced—through stillness, tea, and attentive presence.

This experience takes place within a private temple setting and garden, normally closed to the public, where Zen practice has been sustained for over four centuries. Guests are personally guided in English by Takafumi Zenryu Kawakami, offering rare access to Zen practice as a living tradition rather than a performance or demonstration.

Rather than following a rigid program, the experience unfolds with care and intention—balancing seated meditation, reflective dialogue, and the sharing of tea as a contemplative act. Each element is designed to encourage clarity, attentiveness, and a deeper appreciation of silence.

Kissako is offered to a limited number of guests who seek depth, sincerity, and a meaningful cultural encounter in Kyoto. It is not designed for speed or spectacle, but for presence.

What the experience includes

  • Cold-infused tea prepared using traditional utensils from Asahiyaki, Kaikado, and Kanaami-Tsuji
  • Seated Zen meditation (zazen) – guided meditation
  • Tea appreciation engaging the five senses
  • Nansō meditation, a restorative practice associated with the teachings of Hakuin Ekaku
  • Dharma talk and reflective dialogue
  • Guided visit to the temple garden and prayer hall

 

Practical information

  • Duration: Approximately 120 minutes
  • Language: English
  • Maximum group size: 11 participants

Fee

  • Please check our reservation links below.

Dress code

  • Socks are required
  • Modest attire is recommended
  • Short skirts are discouraged for seated meditation

Cancellation policy

  • 100% of the total fee will be charged for cancellations made less than 7 days before the reserved date

Reservations are required and can be made through the Peatix links below.

February 2026

March 2026

April 2026

May 2026

 

Zen Meditation Retreat at Shunkoin Temple, Kyoto

A discreet, English-guided retreat at a historic Zen temple for discerning international travelers.

Experience the quiet depth of Zen practice within the historic grounds of Shunkoin Temple, a secluded sanctuary in the heart of Kyoto. This exclusive retreat is designed for discerning travelers seeking cultural authenticity, stillness, and meaningful renewal.

Guided in English by Rev. Takafumi Kawakami, the program weaves together Zen meditation, Japanese calligraphy as a contemplative art, a refined tea ceremony, and seasonal shōjin ryōri cuisine. Each element reflects the Zen values of simplicity, presence, and harmony.

Set within a centuries-old temple and tranquil gardens, the retreat offers rare access to Japan’s living spiritual heritage—an experience defined by depth, discretion, and calm.

Ideal for luxury travelers and cultural connoisseurs seeking a private and enriching encounter with Zen in Kyoto.

More details visit Schedule for Overnight Retreat in March, April and May 2026

 

Japanese Calligraphy (Shodō): A Meditative Art

Japanese calligraphy, shodō, is a contemplative practice in which each brushstroke invites focus and presence. In this intimate, English-guided experience, guests are introduced to the spirit of shodō within the serene grounds of a Zen temple.

Limited to eight participants, the session offers a quiet introduction to Japanese characters and brushwork. Guests may write their name or a word of personal meaning and take their finished calligraphy home as a keepsake.

Details

  • Language: English

  • Group size: Maximum 8 guests

April 2nd at 10:30 ~ 12:00 ( https://shodoshunkoin-apr2nd2026.peatix.com/ )

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 

 

Go to Shunkoin Temple’s Main Events and News page

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