Matsushima - Tohoku: Private Zazen, Temple Tour & Mindful Cuisine
Uncover a renewed sense of self amidst the breathtaking beauty of Matsushima, where countless monks have sought spiritual awakening.
[Highlights]
- Immerse yourself in the Zen tradition at Zuigan-ji Temple. Enjoy a guided tour with an English-speaking Buddhist priest, learning about the temple's history and the practice of Zazen (Zen meditation). Gain exclusive access to special rooms and admire the beautiful Fusuma paintings up close.
- Experience the calming tranquility of Entsu-in's moss garden, a masterpiece of Japanese landscape design.
- Enjoy a delicious and healthy Shojin Ryori (Buddhist cuisine)-based lunch.
- Sip on a cup of matcha with a stunning view.
Please note that our tour requires a minimum of 4 participants to operate. If we don't reach this minimum number, unfortunately, we'll have to cancel the tour. You'll be notified of any cancellation 72 hours prior to the start time, and a full refund will be issued.
Options
Matsushima - Tohoku: Private Zazen, Temple Tour & Mindful Cuisine
What's included in Matsushima - Tohoku: Private Zazen, Temple Tour & Mindful Cuisine
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Kanrantei
Traditionally, Buddhist monks have employed matcha as a pre-Zazen ritual to enhance their concentration. Before embarking on Zazen later in the morning, enjoy a bowl of matcha at the Kanrantei Tea House, where you will be treated to a stunning panoramic view of the bay. As you savor the delicate flavor and rich aroma of matcha, surrounded by the serene atmosphere, prepare your mind for the tranquility of Zazen. This traditional ritual helps to center your focus and appreciate the beauty of stillness.
Matsushima Bay
Matsushima is one of the three most scenic spots in Japan, where poets, warlords, and other historical figures fell in love with its scenery. Visit the renowned Godaido Temple, one of Matsushima's most picturesque landmarks.
Zuiganji
Zuiganji Temple is one of Tohoku’s most famous Zen temples. An English-speaking Buddhist priest will show you around the temple first. He will even let us enter special rooms which are not open to the public. Learn interesting history facts which are not on your travel guide book. Later, we will have a Zazen (Zen meditation) session with the monk. Learn Zen breathing techniques and meditate in the serene environment of the temple.
Inclusions
- All transportation fees during the tour
- Matcha tea and traditional sweets at Kanrantei Tea House
- All admission fees and activity fees
- Enjoy a Shojin Ryori (Buddhist cuisine)-based lunch in a traditional Japanese building in Entsu-in Temple.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Private transportation
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- The remaining hours will be allotted for travel and lunch time
- Please be aware that the end time may be delayed due to traffic conditions or other unforeseen circumstances. We kindly request that you allow for extra time when scheduling.
- Loose-fitting clothes are best for Zen meditation. Short skirts are not recommended.
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting / End Points
- A Tranquwell representative will meet you at Stained Glass "Paean for the Trees" at the central concourse outside the ticket gates, JR Sendai Station. We will take a train from Sendai to Matsushima, and then lead you on a walking tour in Matsushima.
